ATHLETE

NASA JPL (USA) · 2006

Not soldNASA research testbed. Field-tested at Dumont Dunes by 2006 (per NASA photo).
Not for sale (research)Lunar roverWheel-on-legNASAGiant
Not soldShipping: N/A. NASA research prototype. Not for sale.

Overview

All-Terrain Hex-Limbed Extra-Terrestrial Explorer, a roughly 4 m wide lunar utility vehicle whose six 6-DOF legs end in wheels, so it drives on easy ground and walks over rough terrain. Legs can also serve as manipulators, and multiple units can dock together to carry habitats. It remains a JPL technology testbed rather than a flight vehicle.

Specifications

CategoryMulti-legged robots · Research & legacy
Released2006
AvailabilityNot for sale (research)
ProgrammabilityNo programmability
Best forProfessionals & labs
Vision sensorsCamera
ActuatorsUnknown
AudioUnknown
Compute typeProprietary / undisclosed
ComputeOnboard computers, teleoperated and semi-autonomous
WeightNot published (450 kg payload design goal)
SpeedTarget 10 km/h (design goal)
Legs / DOF6 limbs × 6 DOF, each ending in a wheel
SensorsCameras and navigation sensors (details not published)
SDKNone public

Ratings & reviews

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Image credits