ReachBot: The Insect-Like Robot Exploring Moon and Mars Caves

An insect-like robot, ReachBot, is being designed to navigate the challenging terrains of caves on the Moon and Mars.

ReachBot’s Advanced Capabilities

ReachBot, developed by the Biomimetics and Dexterous Manipulation Lab at Stanford University, is equipped to scan its surroundings and identify graspable points on rocky surfaces. This mechanism is similar to how a multi-fingered hand operates, allowing ReachBot to explore areas currently beyond reach for other robots.

Testing and Development

Before venturing into the caves of the Moon or Mars, researchers tested a ReachBot prototype in California’s Mojave Desert. The bot successfully identified and securely grasped multiple sites, demonstrating its potential for future planetary explorations.

Design Inspiration and Functionality

Stanford mechanical engineering professor Mark Cutkosky explains the inspiration behind ReachBot’s design. “ReachBot, at least in part, is inspired by animals like the daddy longlegs, which has a very small body and very long limbs or appendages,” he said. The robot, about the size of a suitcase, features long limbs that can reach out and grab the sides of a cave with grippers. It then manipulates itself by alternately attaching, retracting, and extending these limbs.

Prototyping and Future Applications

Researchers are experimenting with different prototypes, featuring a small body and long extendable appendages with grippers. Tony Chen, a postdoctoral researcher working on ReachBot, described the arms as “space booms” similar to 3D tape measures. These arms coil up small and extend long, with grippers and additional sensing elements at the ends to interact with surfaces.

Further prototyping is needed, but researchers believe ReachBot could significantly impact space exploration. Professor Cutkosky highlights the potential of exploring lava tubes or caves on other planets, which are sheltered environments and promising locations to search for signs of previous life. Additionally, these caves could serve as protected shelters for future human habitation, offering protection from radiation and extreme temperatures.