Abrasive, electrostatically charged lunar regolith threatens every surface that humans, robots, rovers, and habitats interact with, from sealing gaskets to the mucous membranes of astronauts (NASA Science). Current engineering responses largely treat dust as a passive contaminant, yet long‑duration stays will demand materials that actively interact dynamically with their users and...
Within the context of lunar dust mitigation technologies, increasing attention is being directed toward the design and development of high-performance polymers that combine exceptional thermo-mechanical properties with enhanced abhesion, i.e., non-sticking ability when in contact with micrometric dust particles of lunar regolith. These materials represent a promising, reliable, energy-saving...
Both in manned and robotic exploration, crew protection and the reduction of material degradation are key aspects of lunar and Martian surface exploration. One of the main risks arises from exposure to and interaction with lunar regolith and dust. In addition to preventing the accumulation of harsh, sharp-edged particles, the CHARON project’s "cleaning hardware recovery operations" will focus...
The possibility of future lunar exploration missions is threatened by the risk that lunar regolith poses to the durability and performance of equipment, as well as to the health of those carrying out activities in the lunar environment. A clear gap in knowledge exists between these challenges and the efficiency of current mitigation technologies. Thus, it is paramount that these technologies...
In the frame of the OSIP activity "Lunar Regolith Ineractions with Environments and Robotic Systems", the efficiency of an EDS system embedded in glass and Kapton samples was successfully tested in vacuum under UV irradiation, across a variety of simulants. The results of this test campaign will be presented.
Both in manned and robotic exploration the crew protection and reduction of material degradation are key aspects in lunar (or Mars) surface applications. One of the main risks is caused by the exposal and interaction with lunar regolith and dust. Whereas the CHARON project (dedicated presentation) is focusing on the removal of dust from complex structures the DEAR project focus on the...
As humanity ventures towards prolonged lunar habitation and exploration, the management of lunar dust contamination within manned modules emerges as a critical concern. Lunar dust, characterized by its abrasive nature and electrostatic properties, poses multifaceted challenges to both human health and equipment integrity. This paper explores the strategy and challenges associated with...
Both in manned and robotic exploration the crew protection and reduction of material degradation are key aspects in lunar (or Mars) surface applications. One of the main risks is caused by the exposal and interaction with lunar regolith and dust. Whereas the DEAR project focus on the contamination caused performance risks studies (dedicated presentation) the DuReCo project is investigating...
