A new backpack device developed by NASA and its partners could allow human explorers to send back maps of the lunar surface.
The Knapsack is equipped with a portable LIDAR scanner that scans the ground as the wearer walks around, collecting detailed information on the surrounding surface.
The sensor is a surveying tool for both navigation and science mapping that can create ultra-high-resolution 3D maps at centimeter-level precision and give them a rich scientific context.
It will help ensure the safety of astronauts and rover vehicles in aGPS-denied environment such as the Moon, identifying actual distances to far-off landmarks and showing explorers in real time how far is left to go to reach their destinations.
The system uses a technology called Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave. The name suggests that it sends out a continuous laser beam. When this light is reflected off a surface, its Frequency changes, and when it returns to the LIDAR detector, it is compared to the emitted light. The difference between the two is determined by the distance to the surface.
This technology is immune to interference from ambient light, and does not require the use of fast electronics. It is streamlined and effective, which is what you want for environments like the Moon.
The technology was demonstrated using a drone. Michael Zanetti is a NASA engineer.
A real-time navigation system that could help astronauts navigate a hostile, alien environment can be created by KNaCK, which is able to collect millions of measurement points per second.
As human beings, we tend to orient ourselves based on landmarks.
Those things are not on the Moon. explorers will be able to determine their movement, direction, and orientation to distant peaks or their base of operations with the help of KNaCK. They can mark specific sites where they found unique mineral or rock formations, so others can easily return for further study.
NASA is working with Torch Technologies Inc. and Aeva Inc. to develop the prototype. In November 2021, the technology was used to map a volcanic crater, and it has also been used to conduct a 3D reconstruction of sea barrier sand dunes.
NASA scientists will continue using KNaCK to assess the impact of storm erosion on the dunes, which currently protect the space agency's primary rocket launch pads. A major field test is going to be conducted at the Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute in New Mexico.
The technology needs to be Moon-proof to protect it against the harsh solar radiation and lower gravity on the Moon. Shrinking the kit will be done. The backpack-sized KNaCk weighs about 40 pounds.
The next-generation space-hardened unit with support from Torch Technologies will be about the size of a soda can and could enable lunar surface operations like never before.
The astronauts might be able to have actual backpacks that they can fill with Moon rocks or carry equipment, while still maintaining the mapping and navigation function.
We want to see what an astronauts falling over might look like.
NASA wants to return humans to the moon by the year 2025.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
