LAMP v1 (Astra)

LAMP v1, also known as Astra, is the first proposed candidate to become LAMP (Lunar, Autonomous, Modular, Platform). Designed by Elliott Madsen, Astra was developed in Fusion360 and tested in LUMINSim to assess its mining, mobility, and transport capabilities on the lunar surface. This testing revealed core flaws requiring near-complete redesign, which (as of July 3rd, 2025) has yet to be completed.

For more information and visuals, watch the RobotMoose YouTube video about Astra that covers both Astra and LAMP.

Design Overview

Modular Tool Coupler

Astra features a single arm equipped with a modular tool coupler, allowing it to utilize any tool designed for it. Unlike Excahauler, Astra does not have a pre-attached bucket, as it's design prioritizes modularity. Astra's tool coupler is located on the end of a two-joint arm and has tilt functionality, providing versatility in operating a range of tools.

Modular Bed

On Astra's back is a modular bed coupler. This coupler allows it to carry a large variety of beds, including but not limited to:

A hopper-style bed (seen in the photo above; for transporting loose material).
A flatbed (for general transport of solid objects).
A tool bed (for carrying multiple tool types).
A communications relay (possibly with an antenna to be lifted by the arm's tool coupler).

Frame

Astra's frame was designed to be highly modular while also allowing high mobility across lunar terrain, with emphasis on ease of travel and transport.

Design Flaws and Testing

During its development and testing in LUMINSim, several design flaws in Astra were identified:

The arm's hinge point on the frame was positioned too far forward, causing the robot to easily tip over, especially during heavy lifting.
The original built-in hopper design was deemed inefficient. This was replaced with the aforementioned modular bed interface, but was not enough to save the overall design due to the previous issue.
The wheelbase generally struggles in lunar agility.

These insights have guided plans for design improvements in the next LAMP candidate.

For more information or to contribute to the development of the LAMP project, visit the team's GitHub page.