Abstract
JAXA is carrying out research and development of a lunar lander and its mobile robot (rover) aimed at precursor of human lunar exploration and lunar science. The target areas for lunar exploration are mainly in mountainous zones, and the moon's surface is covered by regolith. Achieving a steady run on such irregular terrain is the big technical problem for rovers. This was determined considering the mass and expected payload of the rover. This paper describes the technical issues of the rover designed for lunar exploration, and presents the trend and status of research and development. This paper also gives study and analysis results about suspension mechanisms of the lunar exploration rover.
