Courtesy : Bosch
The moon — an environment full of extremes that can push even the most advanced technologies to their limits. Abrasive dust blocks sensitive sensors, temperatures as low as -150°C challenge conventional electronics, and the complete absence of GPS makes precise navigation nearly impossible. Such conditions demand innovative solutions tailored to the unique requirements of this extraordinary environment.
Bosch brings its technological expertise to a visionary project funded by NASA’s Tipping Point program with $5.8 million. In collaboration with Astrobotic, WiBotic, the University of Washington, and NASA’s Glenn Research Center, the project unites contributions from leading innovators. CubeRover(TM), developed by Astrobotic, is the mission’s lightweight and modular exploration vehicle. WiBotic contributes wireless charging technology, enabling efficient energy transfer under lunar conditions. Bosch focuses on autonomous docking, providing critical systems that ensure the CubeRover(TM) can navigate and connect reliably in this extreme environment. The University of Washington and NASA Glenn Research Center contribute by offering performance characterization and testing of the wireless charging system.
Together, these efforts promise to revolutionize space exploration while paving the way for future innovations in autonomous systems development.
The minds behind the mission — Vivek Jain and his team
One of them is Vivek Jain, a lead expert at Bosch Research. Astrobotic serves as the principal investigator for this project, working closely with Bosch, which contributes its expertise in sensing, software, and autonomous docking for wireless power transmission.
Together, the partners are developing technologies that enable the rovers to navigate the moon with precision — without GPS. To achieve this, Bosch relies on a combination of camera data, Wi-Fi fingerprinting and sensor fusion. These approaches ensure that the rovers operate reliably even under extreme conditions such as intense light or presence of sticky lunar dust. With these innovative solutions, Bosch plays a crucial role in advancing the development of autonomous systems designed for the moon’s demanding environment.
CubeRover(TM) — small, lightweight, and efficient
CubeRover(TM) is the centerpiece of the lunar mission, designed specifically for operation on the moon’s surface. A modular, ultra-lightweight, and compact rover, its smallest form factor weighs less than 5 pounds and is roughly the size of a shoebox. These characteristics enable the simultaneous transport of multiple rovers on a central platform (lander), which lands on the lunar surface and serves as a base station for power and navigation.
This makes missions not only more flexible but also more cost-effective, as multiple rovers can be deployed with a single launch. In addition to its compact size, CubeRover(TM) impresses with its versatility. It can carry scientific instruments such as cameras or spectrometers, opening up new approaches to lunar exploration. With its innovative technology and ability to operate reliably even in extreme environments, it represents a turning point in the exploration of new worlds.
Reaching the destination without GPS — the challenges of navigating the moon
How Bosch develops creative solutions for navigation.
Orientation with visual markers and sensor fusion
How do you navigate on the moon, where GPS is not an option? Bosch has the answer with innovative technologies that guide the CubeRover(TM) safely through the extreme conditions of the lunar surface. The lander, a platform on the moon’s surface, serves as a central base station for the CubeRover(TM), providing energy and orientation. Special visual markers, known as AprilTags, are attached to the lander and function like QR codes. These markers are detected by the CubeRover(TM)’s camera, enabling it to accurately calculate its position and navigate securely.
In addition, the CubeRover(TM) employs sensor fusion, combining camera data with information from motion sensors and wheel speed sensors. This technology ensures stability even on uneven or slippery surfaces — performing reliably amidst dust, intense light, or wheel slips.
Wi-Fi fingerprinting as a backup solution
In addition to visual markers, Bosch uses Wi-Fi fingerprinting to ensure the CubeRover(TM)’s navigation. The lander, the central platform on the lunar surface, emits Wi-Fi signals that the rover receives. Based on the signal strength and characteristics, the CubeRover(TM) determines its position and creates a map of the surroundings.
This method acts as a backup when visual markers are obscured by dust or shadows, ensuring the CubeRover(TM) remains navigable even under challenging conditions. By combining visual markers, sensor fusion, and Wi-Fi fingerprinting, Bosch enables precise navigation – entirely without GPS.
Wireless charging
The small rover presents unique challenges for energy supply. Being too small for large solar panels, the CubeRover(TM) employs an innovative solution: wireless charging. The lander collects solar energy and transfers it wirelessly to the rover.
An additional benefit of this technology is the heat generated during the charging process. This heat is used to protect the rover from the extreme temperatures of the lunar night. Intelligent charging algorithms ensure that the rover aligns its position optimally for efficient energy transfer.
