The Next Leap in Space Robotics

Project

SpaceHopper: A legged robot for microgravity environments

Development of a jumping robot

As a team of ten students, we developed a legged robot designed for microgravity environments. Our robot is able to demonstrate the key capabilities necessary for microgravity locomotion. The development of SpaceHopper continues, and one-day, SpaceHopper might explore the surface of asteroids.

Watch our Project presentation
at ETH Zürich:

Vision

Asteroid Exploration

The challenging environment of asteroids calls for new, unique solutions. Our robot named SpaceHopper is a revolutionary, lightweight platform especially designed for low-gravity locomotion that could enable a broad range of new missions to explore this vast uncharted part of our solar neighborhood.

Robot

Three-Legged Symmetrical Robot

Three legs with three degrees of freedom each is the optimal lightweight solution for jumping in low gravity. Locomotion in any direction is easy, thanks to the lack of preferred orientation.

Locomotion Concept

Efficient low gravity locomotion

With this novel approach for low gravity rovers, we developed an entirely new locomotion concept for efficient travel in microgravity. This locomotion concept comprises six movement capabilities that ensure reliable and fast travel on an asteroid.

  • Hop to Traverse Large Distances
  • Attitude Control During Flight
  • Controlled Landing at Target Point
  • Precise Short-Distance Locomotion
  • Ability to Carry a Scientific Payload
  • Self-Righting After Landing

Powerful Jump

The combined power of all nine motors enables a strong and precise takeoff to overcome large obstacles and long distances.

Precise Reorientation

Clever movements of its legs allow SpaceHopper to reorient itself without any flywheels. This ensures landing on the feet at any time.

Smooth Landing

Landing on its own feet allows for a soft landing without uncontrolled bouncing.