SpaceHopper

SpaceHopper
Description: SpaceHopper is a research project developed by students from ETH Zürich and ZHAW, focusing on creating a three-legged robot designed for efficient locomotion in low-gravity environments, such as asteroids and small moons. The robot utilizes a unique hopping mechanism to navigate challenging terrains in microgravity.
Vision:
To enable a new class of space missions that utilize legged robots for efficient and controlled exploration of asteroids and other small celestial bodies, potentially paving the way for future resource utilization and scientific discoveries.
Mission:
To advance space exploration by developing innovative robotic systems capable of traversing and studying low-gravity celestial bodies, thereby contributing to our understanding of the solar system.
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Key Milestones:
  • 2021: Initiation of the SpaceHopper project as an ETH Zürich focus project by a team of ten students.
  • 2023: Successful completion of three parabolic flights as part of the ESA Academy Experiments Program, demonstrating the robot's reorientation and attitude control capabilities in microgravity conditions.
  • 2024: Continued development and testing of the robot, with plans to further advance its capabilities for potential future deployment on asteroid exploration missions.
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Products & Services:
  • SpaceHopper Robot: A three-legged, small-scale robot designed for mobile exploration of low-gravity environments. The robot weighs 5.2 kg and features a triangular, symmetrical body with one leg attached to each corner. It employs a hopping mechanism to traverse large distances efficiently and can reorient itself mid-air to ensure controlled landings.
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