Tyre firms strive for puncture-proof technology for lunar missions

In recent years, significant efforts have been made to create advanced tyres suitable for moon and Mars missions, driven primarily by the upcoming US Artemis missions, which aim to return astronauts to the Moon by 2027. The Artemis astronauts will engage in expeditions much longer than those conducted during the Apollo missions between 1969 and 1972, which saw limited travel of only 25 miles across the lunar surface. With advanced technology comes rigorous challenges, including handling extreme temperature variations on the Moon. As noted by Dr. Padula, tyres must be capable of deforming over rocky terrain and returning to their original form to maintain efficiency and avoid power loss during rover operations. Furthermore, new wheels must support significantly larger loads than the lightweight rovers used previously, presenting a substantial challenge on Mars, where the gravity is twice that of the Moon. Tyre manufacturers, such as Michelin and Bridgestone, are exploring innovative materials and designs for optimal performance on these extraterrestrial terrains. Michelin is focusing on high-performance plastics and Nitinol alloys, while Bridgestone is utilizing bio-mimicry inspired by camel footpads that enhance flexibility and distribute weight effectively across the lunar surface, preventing the vehicles from getting stuck in rocky debris. Both companies are currently part of separate consortiums submitting proposals for technology to NASA, with the European Space Agency also evaluating the potential for European rover technology. Overall, this intersection of science, engineering, and space exploration marks a pivotal moment for future lunar and Martian exploration, shaping the foundations for sustainable human presence on these distant worlds.