Robotic lava tube mapping and multimodal data collection using quadruped and LiDAR

Area of Science:

• Planetary Science and Engineering
• Robotics and Autonomous Systems

Background:

• Research focuses on developing extraterrestrial habitats in lava tubes for the Moon and Mars.
• Lava tubes are considered promising natural shelters for future human settlements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct robotic mapping of an analogue lava tube in Sicily (Grotta di Monte Intraleo).
• To acquire a novel dataset for assessing lava tube suitability for construction and future exploration.
• To evaluate lava tube exploration scenarios for the Moon and Mars.

Main Methods:

• Robotic mapping utilizing LiDAR technology.
• Multi-technique scanning for enhanced data redundancy and comprehensiveness.
• Data acquisition and analysis for habitat suitability assessment.

Main Results:

• Successful robotic mapping of Grotta di Monte Intraleo.
• Generation of a novel dataset for extraterrestrial habitat research.
• Identification of challenges and insights for future lava tube exploration.

Conclusions:

• Robotic mapping provides a robust foundation for future robotic exploration and habitat planning in lava tubes.
• The acquired dataset is crucial for advancing the development of extraterrestrial habitats.
• The study highlights the importance of multi-technique scanning for comprehensive data acquisition in analogue environments.