Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute develops lunar rover technology

The Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute (KERI) is collaborating with the space robotics startup Unmanned Exploration Laboratory (UEL) to develop domestic driving technologies for lunar exploration rovers. This initiative aims to reduce South Korea's reliance on imported space-grade actuators, which are currently sourced entirely from overseas.

Led by Dr. Lee Ji-young, the research team is developing electric motors and power conversion devices capable of operating in the extreme conditions of the lunar surface, including temperatures reaching 125 degrees Celsius, high vacuum, and abrasive dust. The goal is to enable rovers weighing under 25kg to navigate 10-degree inclines at speeds of 4 meters per second.

The project includes the establishment of a Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation (HILS) system to verify component performance in virtual space environments. A significant milestone is expected in October during the fifth launch of the Nuri rocket, which will serve as a testbed for the space verification of certain domestically developed components, such as control boards. This effort is part of the broader government roadmap to achieve lunar exploration by 2032.