Summary
A key challenge for future Moon and Mars missions is developing tires that can withstand harsh conditions without getting punctures. New materials and designs are being tested to ensure that lunar and Martian vehicles can cover long distances on their surfaces.
Key Facts
- Apollo mission rovers used lightweight vehicles with special tires made of zinc-coated piano wire.
- Mars and Moon surfaces present tough conditions that can damage tires.
- Current lunar missions, like Artemis, plan to use new rovers to explore more areas on the Moon.
- New lunar rovers aim to travel up to 10,000 kilometers over 10 years.
- Temperatures on the Moon can drop extremely low, affecting tire performance.
- Michelin and others are exploring materials like metal alloys and high-performance plastics for space tires.
- Nitinol, an alloy of nickel and titanium, is being considered for its ability to bend and return to shape, like rubber.
- Bridgestone has designed a tire inspired by camel footpads to help disperse weight effectively.
