Lunar Jetpack Mobility: A Feasibility Study on AI-Assisted Propulsion for Astronaut Maneuverability
- Paper ID
100405
- author
- company
- country
Hong Kong SAR, China
- year
2025
- abstract
As lunar exploration advances toward sustained human presence, astronaut mobility remains a critical challenge. Traditional solutions, such as rovers, impose terrain limitations, energy constraints, and reliance on bulky infrastructure. This study explores the feasibility of a next-generation EVA mobility system, integrating the eurus.space WAVE-m (Water-based Adaptive Velocity Engine for MMU)—a modular, AI-assisted propulsion platform designed to enhance astronaut maneuverability in partial gravity environments. By leveraging in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), water-based propulsion, and adaptive AI control, this system presents a potential paradigm shift in astronaut extravehicular activity (EVA) autonomy and efficiency. {\bf Concept and Feasibility Assessment } This study evaluates key engineering considerations, technical trade-offs, and operational viability for integrating WAVE-m as a clip-on modular propulsion system for astronaut mobility. The system combines a dual-mode propulsion mechanism — resistojets for precision maneuvers and electrolysis-based thrusters for high-impulse bursts, enabling transitions between low-thrust navigation and rapid repositioning. {\bf AI-Driven Navigation and Human-System Integration } The feasibility study examines how onboard AI can synchronize with astronaut body dynamics and skill levels, improving mobility control through: • IMU-based motion prediction, enhancing real-time stability. • Vision-based SLAM and LiDAR-assisted obstacle detection, supporting hazard avoidance. • Semi-autonomous control modes, allowing AI-assisted navigation and emergency return functions. {\bf Key Challenges and Technical Considerations } The study identifies primary feasibility concerns: 1. Propellant Generation and Storage: The need for in-situ water electrolysis and pressurized storage solutions. 2. Dust Mitigation and Thruster Efficiency: Ensuring sealed propulsion components to prevent regolith adhesion and thermal resilience in extreme lunar conditions. 3. Structural Design and Mass Optimization: Evaluating lightweight composite materials to maintain a favorable thrust-to-mass ratio in lunar gravity. 4. Safety and Autonomy: Assessing the effectiveness of tumble prevention algorithms, collision avoidance AI, and automated astronaut retrieval functions in emergency scenarios. {\bf Implications for Lunar Exploration } By assessing the feasibility of applying dual mode WAVE-m thrusters and AI-Human system integration, this study explores the potential to extend astronaut operational range, improve EVA safety, and enable access to challenging lunar terrains, such as permanently shadowed regions. The findings aim to inform future development pathways, technical requirements, and mission integration strategies for AI-assisted astronaut propulsion systems in lunar exploration and beyond.