NASA recently announced that the Moon RACER team, of which Michelin is a member, has been awarded the feasibility study for phase 1 of the ARTEMIS project.
This project, entitled “Lunar Terrain Vehicle Phase 1 Feasibility Study”, aims to design a lunar vehicle capable of operating in extreme conditions on the moon for 10 years.
Alongside Michelin, the team headed by Intuitive Machines also includes AVL, Boeing and Northrop Grumman Corporation.
Michelin will leverage its expertise in airless tires and its knowledge of high-tech materials to design a lunar wheel capable of withstanding extreme temperatures (over 100°C and below -240°C) and solar and galactic radiation, while preserving the rover’s battery life and providing maximum traction on an aggressive, loose soil.
The developments carried out as part of this project will enable Michelin to continue innovating in terrestrial applications.
