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Korean origami-inspired rover wheels could explore the moon
CNN • • science
Key Points:
- South Korean researchers at KAIST are developing a lunar rover with innovative origami-inspired wheels that can fold to fit inside a lander and expand once on the moon, aiming for deployment by 2030.
- The wheels, made from fire-resistant high-carbon steel, are designed to flex and withstand the moon’s extreme temperature fluctuations, enabling exploration of challenging terrains like lava tubes.
- The project leverages origami principles to create a lightweight, deployable wheel system that reduces complexity compared to conventional mechanisms, enhancing reliability for space missions.
- Testing has been conducted in lunar-like environments, including lava tubes on Jeju Island and simulated lunar regolith, with ongoing work integrating AI to optimize rover design and autonomous movement.
- South Korea is significantly increasing its space budget and ambitions, with the Korea Aerospace Administration aiming to position the country among the top five aerospace powers globally.
