European Lunar Micro Rover Ready for Launch

The lunar micro rover known as TENACIOUS is a remarkable piece of technology that has been meticulously designed and crafted with the support of the Luxembourg Space Agency. This innovative rover, developed as part of a collaboration between the European Space Agency and LuxIMPULSE, is set to play a crucial role in exploring the lunar surface.

Named for its resilient and determined nature, TENACIOUS is designed to be deployed from the RESILIENCE lunar lander to conduct detailed exploration around the landing site. Measuring 26 cm tall, 31.5 cm wide, and 54 cm long, this compact rover weighs approximately 5 kg. Its lightweight yet durable frame, constructed from carbon fiber-reinforced plastics, ensures its ability to withstand the rigors of space travel.

Equipped with a high-definition camera mounted at the front, TENACIOUS is capable of capturing stunning images of the lunar landscape. The rover's uniquely shaped wheels enable it to navigate the challenging lunar regolith with stability, allowing it to move effectively across the surface. Communication with the mission control center will be facilitated through the lander, ensuring seamless operation of the rover.

Julien Lamamy, CEO of ispace-EUROPE, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “Tenacious perfectly captures the spirit of this small lunar micro rover, poised to achieve groundbreaking milestones. It is the first lunar rover built in Europe and will be the first to transport European customers to the Moon’s surface and collect space resources under Luxembourg’s 2017 Space Resources Law.”

As the world's interest in lunar exploration continues to grow, Takeshi Hakamada, Founder and CEO of ispace, highlighted the company's commitment to contributing to the development of lunar resources. The upcoming Mission 2, scheduled for Winter 2024, will mark a significant step forward in lunar exploration, with the deployment of TENACIOUS playing a key role in the mission's success.