Space Technology Special Report - Version B. July 2023 - 29

The Multi-Layer NTAC technology
can be manufactured using existing
semiconductor fabrication technology
and can be tailored for small-tolarge
scale power needs, including
kilowatt and megawatt applications.
The device provides a compact,
reliable, and continuous electrical source
with high power density capable of longlife
operation without refueling. The MultiLayer
NTAC is based on previous work
at NASA in which a single emitter device
captured high energy photons; use of a
multi-layer structure greatly improves the
performance of the electrical generator.
Applications include power for systems
on small satellites, drones, commercial
airliners, spacecraft, electric vehicles,
long-lived nuclear batteries, and others.
NASA is actively seeking licensees to
commercialize this technology. Please
contact NASA's Licensing Concierge
at Agency-Patent-Licensing@mail.
nasa.gov or call at 202-358-7432 to
initiate licensing discussions. For more
information, visit https://technology.
nasa.gov/patent/LAR-TOPS-335.
Lightweight Crane Technology for the Moon
A prototype version could be demonstrated on a large cargo lunar lander.
Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
T
he Lightweight Surface
Manipulation System (LSMS) is a
lightweight robotic crane comprised
of a structurally efficient truss frame
with cable actuation that mimics
the movement of a human arm
but with a much longer reach. It
is scalable to fit any sized lander,
vehicle, or surface application
and can use a toolbox of quickinterchange
end-effectors, or tools,
that allow it to act as a hoist, forklift,
regolith scoop, welder, and more.
The LSMS was first designed, built,
and tested at Langley more than a
decade ago to demonstrate the concept
for offloading large payloads, such
as habitats and rovers, from landers
on human exploration missions.
Upgrades to LSMS since its initial
development include a suite of new tools
such as a bucket truck end-effector for
digging and maneuvering regolith, a
forklift tine tool for lifting cargo pallets,
and a welding tool - in addition to
greater auton omous functionality. Now,
the team is working to design, build,
and test a proto-flight, or flight-like,
version that could be demonstrated
on a large cargo lunar lander.
As NASA establishes a sustainable
presence on the Moon under the
Artemis missions, it needs to start
setting up multiple elements and
there will be a wide range of tasks
that could leverage the versatility
and functionality of the LSMS.
SPACE TECHNOLOGY SPECIAL REPORT
LSMS is a lightweight, scalable, and versatile long-reach manipulator that combines high structural
efficiency and robustness with the enhanced dexterity and multi-functionality of a deployable
robotic arm. (Image: NASA)
The new LSMS will be similar in size
to the original prototype with about
a 25-foot reach and will be able to
lift payloads weighing around one
metric ton on the Moon - equal to
approximately 2,200 pounds or the
size of an elephant. Upcoming Artemis
missions carrying science instruments,
technology demonstrations, and rovers
will be in that payload size range.
The LSMS hardware will be
space-rated and ready for further
development that could make
it compatible with one or more
of the landers that is selected
to go to the Moon. A followon
project would develop the
additional mechanical and electrical
interfacing and software needed
to integrate it with a lander.
JULY 2023 29

http://Agency-Patent-Licensing@mail.nasa.gov https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/LAR-TOPS-335 https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/LAR-TOPS-335

Space Technology Special Report - Version B. July 2023

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