NASA’s RASSOR robot recently underwent testing at Kennedy Space Center, successfully excavating simulated lunar soil with its unique counterrotating drums. This trial validates RASSOR’s traction and digging capabilities, paving the way for IPEx—the next-gen, autonomous excavator designed to harvest Moon resources like oxygen and water. The test marks a major step in developing in-situ resource utilization technologies critical for long-term lunar exploration and future Mars missions. Engineers say RASSOR’s performance directly influences IPEx’s design, aimed at supporting NASA’s Artemis program and sustainable off-Earth living.
