The development of a soil for lunar surface mobility testing in ambient conditions

H. A. Oravec, V. M. Asnani, X. Zeng

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

The mechanical properties of the lunar soil are critical parameters in predicting vehicle performance on the Moon. In preparation for Man's return to the Moon, surface vehicles must be tested on terrain that represents the mechanical strength of the lunar ground. Terrain that simulates the lunar trafficability conditions must have similar compaction and shear response underneath the wheel. This paper discusses the development of a soil (called GRC-1) and soil-preparation method to emulate the measured compaction and shear characteristics of the Moon's surface. A semi-empirical design approach was used incorporating particle sieve and hydrometer analyses as well as triaxial strength testing. Soil preparations were developed to match stress-strain curves resulting from in-situ lunar experiments. Additionally, results of laboratory strength tests with returned lunar soil samples and lunar soil simulants were compared to provide insight into the material's relative strength properties.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEarth and Space Conference 2008
Subtitle of host publicationProceedings of the 11th Aerospace Division International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments
DOIs
StatePublished - 2008
EventEarth and Space Conference 2008: Proceedings of the 11th Aerospace Division International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments - Long Beach, CA, United States
Duration: 3 Mar 20085 Mar 2008

Publication series

NameEarth and Space Conference 2008: Proceedings of the 11th Aerospace Division International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments
Volume323

Conference

ConferenceEarth and Space Conference 2008: Proceedings of the 11th Aerospace Division International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityLong Beach, CA
Period3/03/085/03/08

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