Canada-based startup STELLS revealed their Mobile Power Rover (MPR-1) this week, and if tests are successful, it aims to provide wireless charging on the Moon via its solar panels by 2025. They plan to launch it as a payload on an Intuitive Machines lander to the south polar regions of the lunar surface, and once activated, will transfer power using wireless technology to other spacecraft as well as vehicles.
The team has completed tests on a prototype and the production MPR-1 rover will weigh in at around 66-pounds. So far, the first rover launched is scheduled to be just a demonstration, but the company does plan on collaborating with those joining them on the lander for potential use cases. One challenge they will have to overcome is perfecting a wheel capable of traversing on sand, which resulted in a paddle boat-inspired wheel that help it gain traction without digging in.
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The benefit of having a reliable power source in space is tremendous. This solution provides the potential to extend the mission lifespan, increase exploration range and revive robots and rovers that have run out of power. The technology can be implemented from a network grid on thelunar surface to potentially provide power to larger power-demanding endeavors of settlement/resource extraction missions,” said the company.
