NASA is investing in a groundbreaking research project aimed at developing a levitating robotic transport system for lunar surface missions. The project, known as “Flexible Levitation on Rails” (float), has advanced to the second phase of NASA’s Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) program. The goal of the program is to explore bold and futuristic ideas for upcoming space exploration missions.
The Float concept involves a magnetic levitation system that is projected to be operational on the moon by the 2030s. This system will streamline the delivery of goods and equipment, thus supporting the construction and resupply of future lunar bases. Ethan Schaler, chief engineer at NASA’s Reactive Traffic Laboratory, envisions the creation of a lunar railway system that will offer reliable, autonomous, and efficient transportation services to sustain NASA’s long-term objectives.
Under the current design plan, Float will comprise magnetic robotic modules that will float above a specialized three-layer film track, providing protection against lunar dust and small meteorites. These modules will be capable of transporting cargo wagons or containers at speeds of approximately 1.6 km/h, delivering up to 100 tons of materials per day to NASA’s future lunar base.
NASA is gearing up to resume manned lunar missions as early as 2025 through the Artemis program, with plans to establish a sustainable human presence on the moon. This endeavor will serve as a stepping stone for future human expeditions to Mars and beyond. The Float Levitational Transport System is poised to play a crucial role in facilitating the logistics of the lunar base and supporting NASA’s ambitious space exploration initiatives.