About this Research Topic
Central to this endeavor is the collaborative operation of multi-rover units. These sophisticated robots must work in unison, leveraging collective intelligence and control algorithms to maximize efficiency and mission success. As we prepare for a sustained lunar presence, the link to maintenance and servicing capabilities becomes clear; robotics in Moon orbit are crucial. Robotic arms mounted on spacecraft extend human capabilities, enabling in-situ repairs, construction and even the assembly of space structures—a critical aspect of on-orbit servicing.
Furthermore, the Artemis Gateway Space Station stands as a cornerstone of this new era, serving as a pivotal staging point for lunar missions. The deployment and utilization of robotics in this orbiting facility underscore the significance of innovation in hardware and software, which are vital for ensuring the safety, reliability and continuity of space operations. This backdrop of rapid advancement propels us to explore the frontiers of lunar robotics and the pivotal advancements in on-orbit spacecraft servicing—a realm brimming with opportunities for scientific breakthroughs and the next leap in space exploration strategies.
The goal of this Research Topic is to address the complex challenges of autonomous operation and cooperation in extraterrestrial environments, particularly on the Moon. We aim to explore the design and deployment of advanced robotics systems capable of overcoming the Moon’s extreme conditions, focusing on autonomous navigation, and the execution of scientific tasks with minimal human input.
A pivotal aspect of this theme is enhancing multi-rover operations through collaborative behaviors and novel control algorithms, to improve mission efficiency and success. Concurrently, we aim to advance the field of on-orbit spacecraft servicing by developing robotic arms capable of maintenance, repair and assembly tasks, crucial for continuous operations in Moon orbit.
Incorporating recent advances in robotics hardware and software, our research will contribute to the sustainability of lunar exploration and set a foundation for the Artemis Gateway Space Station’s operational support, scientific research and overall mission success. This effort aligns with the goals of major space agencies and the private space industry to establish a human and robotic presence on the Moon by 2025 and beyond.
Our Research Topic aims to address the cutting-edge developments in lunar robotics and the critical technology enabling Moon orbital spacecraft servicing. We invite contributions that explore autonomous systems for lunar exploration, focusing on the development, design and deployment of rover technologies. Manuscripts should discuss the integration of collaborative intelligence in multi-rover missions, including control algorithms that enable complex task execution and resource sharing.
We also seek papers on the advancements in orbital robotics arms that aid in spacecraft servicing, with an emphasis on maintenance, repair and assembly tasks to support prolonged lunar activities. Submissions may include original research, reviews, case studies and methodological advancements in these areas.
The scope further includes the role of robotics in the Artemis Gateway Space Station, highlighting operational, scientific and logistical support. Contributions should provide insights into hardware and software innovations that ensure safety, reliability and operational continuity in space operations.
Types of manuscripts desired:
• Original research articles detailing new findings in autonomous lunar systems or orbital servicing technologies
• Review articles synthesizing recent advancements in multi-rover cooperation or space station robotics
• Technical reports on novel hardware and software solutions for lunar robotics challenges
• Case studies of successful missions or experiments involving Moon rover operations or spacecraft-mounted robotic arms
Keywords: Autonomous Lunar Robotics, Multi-Rover Cooperation, Moon Orbit Space Servicing, Spacecraft-mounted multi-arms robotics, Artemis Gateway Utilization
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.