Batteries Survive Cryogenic Freezing

Batteries with non-aqueous electrolytes are shown here to function after recovery from long, cryogenic freezing. This is a change-maker for robotic...   more Batteries with non-aqueous electrolytes are shown here to function after recovery from long, cryogenic freezing. This is a change-maker for robotic lunar missions generally, and specifically for pursuing the Google Lunar XPrize bonus for surviving a night.

A highlight of this video is the moment in an early test when a battery ruptures from sudden shock-thawing. (The rupture is mechanical and preventable. Electrically, even the ruptured batteries still functioned). Rupture is later mitigated by insulation to slow the rate of temperature change. The real highlights are the engaging ideas and the person who is delivering these counter-intuitive developments. Very nice.   less

Astrobotic Technology's Mission and Vision

Team and Project Members explain Astrobotic Technology's vision for commercial lunar exploration.

Astrobotic Red Rover - Spring Carnival

Red Rover was on display and in action at Carnegie Mellon University's famous Carnival event.
This was an opportunity for all to interact with Red R...   more Red Rover was on display and in action at Carnegie Mellon University's famous Carnival event.
This was an opportunity for all to interact with Red Rover and see it in action.
20 lucky participants got the chance to drive it!   less

Astrobotic Red Rover - Motor controller progress

This field-programmable gate array is currently switching lights. The development will eventually switch and drive the robot's stepper motors.

Astrobotic Red Rover - Procedure and training

Continuous loss of corporate memory and continuous impetus for process
improvement conspire to motivate procedure and training.