[Reading Science] Lunar Base Built by 'Humanoid Robots'

NASA Developing Remote-Controlled Humanoid Robot
For Outback and Offshore Bases, Space Exploration Demand
"Can Build Lunar Base Comfortably from Earth"

The U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has unveiled a humanoid robot being developed for lunar and Martian exploration.

Humanoid robot 'Valkyrie' developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Photo by NASA website

On the 7th (local time), NASA announced that it conducted tests of the remotely operated humanoid robot "Valkyrie," developed in collaboration with Woodside Energy in Perth, Australia. The company plans to test Valkyrie's software and provide feedback to help mature NASA's robotic technology. Valkyrie is initially being designed to perform various missions remotely in the middle of the ocean or in remote areas. This aims to improve work efficiency, save labor, and also contribute to environmental conservation.

In particular, NASA expects to further develop this technology for other uses on Earth as well as deploy it in the Artemis mission for lunar exploration. To this end, through the joint tests with Woodside, NASA plans to improve Valkyrie's design so that it can operate flawlessly even in dirty and hazardous environments like the lunar surface.

Humanoid robot 'Valkyrie' developed by NASA Photo by NASA website

Valkyrie is designed to perform flexible movements and various tasks like a human through remote control alone. It allows humans to supervise remotely without performing dangerous tasks directly. It also reduces the burden of tedious and repetitive work. Humans only need to handle the deployment and maintenance of the robot. This applies not only on Earth but also in space. It can be especially useful for constructing and maintaining lunar bases in the Artemis mission. Humans can avoid prolonged exposure to the hazardous lunar environment by deploying only robots and controlling them from Earth to build and manage the base. The same applies to Mars. NASA plans to continue advancing humanoid robot technology capable of remote missions through public-private partnerships like this one.

NASA explained, "Sending remotely operated robots to the surface of Mars or the Moon allows operators on Earth to perform critical activities without astronauts physically being present at the same location," adding, "Resource extraction, production plant maintenance, and inspections can be conducted even when humans are absent." It further stated, "A new chapter has begun in testing and developing advanced robotic systems that enable safer work in hazardous environments, positively impacting life on Earth," and "We will evaluate the current potential of advanced robots to safely explore and operate anytime, anywhere."

Humanoid robot 'Valkyrie' developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Photo by NASA website