Contracts awarded for the development of space technologies for the future of human spaceflight

In recent years, technology initiatives have helped develop concepts and prototypes to increase spacecraft autonomy and reduce operator workload.

MDA will advance these tools by testing an ASF supporting both execution and planning functions, enabling autonomous control of future space hardware such as robotic arms, rovers, scientific instruments, and satellites. The advanced software will be particularly useful in regards to robotics and sensors required to establish Lunar Orbital Platform - Gateway between the Earth and the Moon as well as rover missions on the lunar surface.

The primary target of this technology development is specifically to support the operation of the Lunar Orbital Platform - Gateway robotic system.

MIPS is a robotic system suitable for use as a base or as a grasp fixture to relocate the robot as required in deep space. MDA will develop new components that will provide full-functioning capabilities for autonomous and semi-autonomous operations, as well as new software to support controls and vision guided operations. There is a potential to use this kind of robotic interface for a variety of space exploration and planetary missions as well as on-orbit robotic missions.

This project aims to advance technologies and build a Canadian lunar rover prototype.

The MERIT prototype will function as a technology demonstration improving key constituent elements of a lunar rover system, such as: lightweight structures, integrated rover locomotion, power and energy storage. These enhanced features will contribute to ensure the mobility of high-performance vehicles in harsh environments and increase Canada's capabilities in view of future lunar rover missions.

Lunar surface mobility has been identified as a core area where Canada can build on previous excellency in robotics and contribute to international post-ISS space exploration.

SWARM will contribute to lunar rover prototyping by building and testing a wheel design that is scalable between various sizes of rover, and which specifically addresses requirements of the Precursor to Human and Scientific Rover (PHASR) and the Lunar Pressurized Rover (LPR). Among other necessities, the prototype will be designed to endure harsh lunar terrain, a vacuum environment, and extreme lunar temperatures.