Abstract

Team 516 is working with NASA to create a leveling platform for the new Artemis missions. On these new missions, NASA plans on returning to the Moon with a human lander in search of water deposits. NASA plans to land near the Moon’s south pole where they know the ground is uneven. This creates an uneven working environment inside the lander which is unsafe for the astronauts onboard. This project focuses on the design of a self-leveling platform that can level the lander capsule with the astronauts inside. The goals for the project include a design that is lightweight, reusable, and levels in less than one hour.

The design separates the lander’s capsule and legs. This location blocks dust and harsh temperatures. The design takes in the angular readings from the onboard sensor. With these readings, electronically controlled rods level the lander cabin. These rods will perform a series of movements to adjust the lander cabin position from inside the leg base. The software for the design allows the rods to move quickly and accurately by using a two-axis plane. This plane exists from the union of two opposing rods. These rods will move in pairs until they reach a level state. The project relies on both the hardware and software equally.

The leveling section is independent from a specific lander design. This gives the design a wide variety of lander setups. The simplicity of this design allows for easy maintenance and a low mission impact. The design fits two key goals of being both reusable and lightweight. Another key goal for the project is a quick leveling speed, which this design achieves. Overall, the self-leveling module orients the lander cabin within the design constraints and ensures the cabin interior is suitable for the astronauts.