Autonomy Algorithms for Lunar Cargo Transport

Teaching rovers to “learn the route” on the moon.

Aerospace engineers at the University of Toronto are creating navigation algorithms that could make Canada’s proposed Lunar Utility Vehicle (LUV) mission-ready for lunar transport.

Partnering with MDA Space, Professor Tim Barfoot and PhD student Alec Krawciw are adapting teach-and-repeat autonomy to help rovers haul cargo safely between lunar landing sites and astronaut habitats.

Unlike exploratory rovers, the LUV will shuttle supplies along fixed routes. This marks a first in planetary missions. By automating these repeat trips, astronauts can save time, reduce exposure to lunar hazards, and boost mission efficiency.

“Teach-and-repeat algorithms allow us to pilot the rover along a predetermined path … and once it learns the path, it can automatically repeat the route as many times as you like.”

— Dr. Tim Barfoot, Professor, U of T Robotics Institute

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