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Gitai's robotic arm could operate autonomously on the Moon.
Gitai’s Japanese subsidiary has been awarded a contract by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to conduct a concept study for a robotic arm to be integrated on the space agency’s pressurized crewed lunar rover.
JAXA and Toyota have been conducting joint research on a pressurized rover since 2019. The vehicle, nicknamed “Lunar Cruiser,” is designed to house a crew of astronauts for about 28 days per year while exploring the lunar south pole region. The rest of the year the rover would operate without a crew.
In 2024, JAXA signed an agreement with NASA to provide its rover for the Artemis Moon missions. The rover is scheduled to be dropped off on the Moon in 2031.
“The objective of this study is to define the design and specifications for a robotic arm system capable of supporting lunar science operations primarily during uncrewed periods, while also providing support during crewed missions when needed,” Gitai says.
The arm would be used to excavate regolith, collect rocks and soil, unload equipment, and handle and install large payloads such as scientific instruments and observation equipment, the company says. The robotic arm also would be operated remotely or autonomously for scientific activities on the Moon, Gitai says.
Gitai of Torrance, California, specializes in robotic arms for space applications. The company has also tested robotic arms on the International Space Station and plans to add an arm to a servicing spacecraft.
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