Airless wheel can enable robust, reconfigurable two-wheel lunar rovers

Scientists led by Seong-Bin Lee at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a flexible, airless wheel designed for two-wheeled lunar rovers. This innovative wheel can expand from a compact 230mm diameter to a robust 500mm diameter without hinges, thanks to elastic steel strips arranged in a woven, crossed-helical pattern that evenly distribute weight and reduce wear. The wheel’s unique hub design allows two sides to rotate in opposite directions, enhancing adaptability and durability. In tests, a rover equipped with these wheels successfully traversed simulated lunar soil, climbed over obstacles, withstood a four-meter drop, endured fire exposure, and operated under extreme temperatures, demonstrating its resilience and operational efficiency. The development addresses key challenges in lunar exploration, particularly the need for reliable transportation over rocky, unstable terrain near natural shelters like caves and pits, which are crucial for future lunar bases. Unlike traditional heavy machinery, these reconfigurable wheels offer a safer, more adaptable solution for navigating difficult environments