The Caterpillar

The Caterpillar is a robot, 3.5’ by 2’ by 2’ in size, which is capable of collecting lunar soil through a multitude of steps. First, the robot arrives at the designated excavation site using its highly maneuverable wheels. The Caterpillar’s legs can extend, bend, and move to the side to travel across rough terrain. Then, to start the soil removal process the robot’s vacuum and arms activate. The vacuum collects soil but if large debris is in its path, then its arms will move it elsewhere. Next, the soil is transferred to a conveyor belt located inside of the robot and then comes out the back. The lunar soil is loaded into small carts which are detachable. These carts report back to base and then drop off the gathered resources using solar power energy. When one leaves the other replaces it. The robot can be controlled virtually or remotely.