The Australian government has allocated $42 million for the development and launch of the nation’s first lunar rover to the moon later this decade.
The team responsible for building the rover, named “Roo-ver,” has been selected by Australia. The goal is to send this semi-autonomous rover to the moon with the support of the Australian Space Agency and NASA.
The federal government is investing $42 million (US$26.6 million) in taxpayer dollars to build and operate the lunar rover. ELO2, a consortium of 21 companies and research partners, has been chosen to deliver the rover for the Australian Space Agency after an 18-month design process.
Lunar rovers were previously used during the Apollo missions in 1971 and 1972. However, this new mission aims to leverage Australia’s expertise in robotics, automation, and advanced engineering to drive advancements in manufacturing and other industries.
The government highlighted the potential economic benefits of robotics and automation, estimating that it could contribute $170 billion to $600 billion annually to the Australian economy by 2030.
Human Presence on the Moon ‘Major Focus’
The Australian Space Agency emphasized that establishing a sustainable human presence on the moon is a key focus for the international space community in the coming years. Roo-ver represents Australia’s cutting-edge capabilities in major space missions and aims to advance the national robotics ecosystem for the benefit of life on Earth.
Warwick Penrose from the ELO2 Consortium expressed excitement about being entrusted with building and operating an Australian rover on the moon, highlighting the talent and capabilities of the consortium’s partners.
One Step Closer to Humanity’s Future in Space
Lunar Outpost, along with its Australian team and consortium partners, is leading the effort to build Australia’s first lunar rover. The project aims to strengthen Australia’s presence in space and contribute to humanity’s future beyond Earth.
