Astrolab develops the Flexible Logistics and Exploration (FLEX) Rover, a multi-functional vehicle designed for lunar surface operations. This rover supports both uncrewed cargo delivery and crewed transportation for future deep space exploration missions. The company is advancing the Lunar Terrain Vehicle System to enable long-term human presence on the Moon.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Current lunar missions often require custom-designed rovers for specific tasks, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the limited reusability and adaptability of these vehicles. The lack of a versatile and robust platform hinders the establishment of sustained lunar operations and the broader development of a lunar economy.
Solution
Astrolab addresses these challenges with the Flexible Logistics and Exploration (FLEX) Rover, a multi-purpose vehicle designed for both uncrewed cargo delivery and crewed exploration on the Moon and, potentially, Mars. FLEX serves as a modular logistics system capable of transporting and deploying a wide variety of payloads, supporting infrastructure development, scientific research, and technology demonstrations. Its design accommodates remote operation from Earth, as well as serving as an unpressurized rover for up to two astronauts. By providing a highly capable and adaptable platform, Astrolab aims to reduce the costs associated with lunar surface operations and accelerate the establishment of a permanent human presence on the Moon.
Target Audience
Astrolab's primary customers include space agencies like NASA involved in lunar exploration and Artemis missions, commercial entities seeking to deploy payloads or conduct research on the Moon, and future lunar inhabitants requiring versatile transportation and logistics solutions.
Features
- Modular payload system accommodating diverse cargo types and sizes
- Robotic arm for payload deployment, instrument manipulation, and sample collection
- Capability to carry two suited astronauts for extended surface exploration
- Remote operation from Earth for unmanned missions
- Compatibility with NASA's Lunar Terrain Vehicle System (LTVS) requirements
- High mobility performance in challenging lunar terrain
- Ability to survive extreme temperatures at the Lunar South Pole
- Maximum combined rover and cargo mass of over two tons