NASA Robot Dog LASSIE Walk Moon
NASA-funded researchers are teaching are robot dog, called Spirit, how to walk on the Moon as part of their LASSIE Project: Legged Autonomous Surface Science in Analog Environments.



Spirit successfully traversed numerous challenging terrains, thanks to spindly metal legs capable of shifting around shifting dirt, slushy snow as well as boulders. There were times when the robot had no problems with a hillside, while other moments caused him to teeter over and fall. When all was said and one, Spirit logged produced data that will be used to train future robots for use on intergalactic surfaces.

LEGO Creator Expert NASA Apollo 11 Lunar Lander 10266 Building Toy Set for Ages 16+ (1087 Pieces)

LEGO Creator Expert NASA Apollo 11 Lunar Lander 10266 Building Toy Set for Ages 16+ (1087 Pieces)

  • Detailed Lunar Replica – Features a detailed Eagle lunar lander replica with lunar surface, crater, footprints, and U.S. flag for a realistic space…
  • Realistic Modular Model – This modular set includes a descent stage with gold-colored landing pads, panels, opening camera, laser hatches, and movable…
  • Ascent Stage Interior – The ascent stage boasts a detailed interior with room for 2 astronaut minifigures, finished with an Apollo 11 Lunar Lander…

A legged robot needs to be able to detect what is happening when it interacts with the ground underneath, and rapidly adjust its locomotion strategies accordingly. When the robot leg slips on ice or sinks into soft snow, it inspires us to look for new principles and strategies that can push the boundary of human knowledge and enable new technology. We learn and improve from the observed failures,” said Feifei Qian, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at USC.