In 1971, America’s fascination with automobiles extended to the moon. The Apollo Lunar Rover allowed astronauts to cover over 50 miles of moon surface, transforming them into lunar drivers. Now, Astrolab is taking steps to modernize this experience with a new lunar rover. Jaret Matthews, CEO and founder of Astrolab, shared insights with CBS News about this innovation.
On the streets of Hawthorne, California, Matthews demonstrated a prototype of Astrolab’s FLEX rover. Unlike the Apollo model, the final NASA version will resemble a four-wheel drive electric vehicle. It can function autonomously or transport two astronauts and their equipment. The design aims for durability, operating continuously for a year and covering extensive lunar distances.
“The lunar terrain vehicles must be a hybrid of the classic Apollo Rover and advanced technology like the Mars Perseverance Rover,” Matthews explained. These vehicles need the capability to be controlled remotely from Earth.
Astrolab and Colorado-based Lunar Outpost have been chosen by NASA to create the initial moon buggies for a planned base near the moon’s south pole. Each company received about $220 million for their contributions. Lunar Outpost will build the Pegasus rover, complementing Astrolab’s efforts.
NASA recently outlined a $20 billion vision for the lunar base. Shortly after, an explosion occurred with Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin New Glenn Rocket during testing at Cape Canaveral. This rocket is pivotal for NASA’s Artemis program and Blue Origin’s lunar lander, which will transport the rovers. The impact of this explosion on the timeline remains uncertain.
Despite setbacks, Lunar Outpost CEO Justin Cyrus sees broader potential on the moon, envisioning more diverse applications beyond NASA’s current plans. “NASA hopes to be one of many clients,” Cyrus remarked, emphasizing the importance of creating versatile lunar vehicles.
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