Western Secures $3.8 Million Contract for Lunar Rover Imaging Technology

Western University has been awarded a significant contract by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) to develop an advanced imaging instrument for a lunar rover. The CSA has allocated $3.8 million to support the advancement of instrument concepts aimed at enhancing lunar exploration capabilities. This initiative is part of broader efforts to design a rover that will assist astronauts during lunar missions and conduct scientific investigations on the Moon’s surface.

The awarded contract focuses on the development of the Dual Sensor Multispectral Imager (DS-MSI), a compact dual-camera system intended for the Canadian lunar utility rover. This project is spearheaded by lead investigator Jayshri Sabarinathan, alongside a multidisciplinary team from Western University, including experts from various fields and industry partners such as Mission Control Space Services, INO, LightSail, and Spectral Devices.

Innovative Imaging Technology for Lunar Exploration

The DS-MSI is designed to meet essential lunar science objectives. It will provide high-resolution stereo images, which are crucial for rover navigation, and will utilize a unique compact filter wheel currently under patent application. This innovative design incorporates two camera sensors—one for visible to near-infrared (VIS-NIR) and another for short-wavelength infrared (SWIR)—allowing the instrument to capture detailed multispectral data with reduced size and complexity.

Sabarinathan, a professor in electrical and computer engineering, emphasized the importance of understanding lunar composition. “There are many compelling reasons to study and understand lunar composition. From a scientific perspective, geologists and planetary scientists need detailed information to understand the Moon’s formation and evolution,” she stated. The imager will aid in characterizing lunar regolith, identifying water ice, and analyzing the Moon’s mineral composition, all vital for future exploration and resource utilization.

Broader Applications Beyond Lunar Missions

The development of the DS-MSI is not confined to lunar exploration alone. Sabarinathan noted that similar camera systems have been adapted for various applications, including agricultural monitoring and environmental assessments. A smaller version of the system is currently deployed on the Skylark CubeSat, which tracks migratory bird patterns.

Looking ahead, the technology could also play a role in defense applications, such as monitoring Arctic conditions and identifying potential threats. “We’ve been developing our dual camera system for the past few years across a wide range of applications,” Sabarinathan explained. The adaptability of this technology highlights its potential far beyond lunar missions, showcasing Western’s commitment to innovation and exploration.

The collaboration between Western University and the CSA marks a significant step in Canada’s space exploration initiatives, aligning with global efforts to expand our understanding of the Moon and beyond. As the project progresses, it promises to pave the way for future missions and scientific discoveries that could reshape our understanding of lunar resources and their potential uses.