Surface Mobility Systems for Lunar Exploration

A spectrum of lunar roving vehicles has been developed and shown to be compatible with the manned launch system using the Extended Lunar Module and the unmanned launch system using the Lunar Logistics Lander. Also shown is a single-roving-vehicle concept, which satisfies the requirements of both unmanned and manned missions. A general description and performance characteristics are given for each roving-vehicle system covered in the spectrum. The roving vehicles suggested in this paper could fulfill a variety of missions, thus providing the mission planners with the many options from which a roving vehicle could be selected to fit the mission and program needs.