China develops energy-recharging robot for Chang'e 8 mission

A research team from Dalian University of Technology, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and Shenzhen University has come up with a concept for a multifunctional robot that would operate on the lunar surface and act as a mobile charging station.

According to a press release from Dalian University of Technology, the China National Space Administration (CNSA) has approved the robot to join the exploration mission with Chang'e 8. The robot weighs about 100 kg and is designed to carry out complex experiments in harsh conditions on the Moon.

Team leader Yu Xiaozhou from Dalian University of Technology said the robot can follow the lander as it goes to the Moon and monitor its operations.

Professor Yu Hongyu of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology said the project aims to address technical challenges such as the ability to withstand the extremely cold temperatures at the lunar south pole. The robot is also designed to perform autonomous positioning, navigation, and movement without the use of satellite positioning systems.

Chang'e 8 will work with Chang'e 7 to build a basic model for a lunar research station. Chang'e 7 is scheduled to launch in 2026 to explore resources at the Moon's south pole.

Ganoderma (t/h)