Cosmic-XT, A Truss-Traversing General-Purpose Outfitting Robot

Cosmic Robotics, Inc. proposes the development of Cosmic-XT, an autonomous, self-powered robot designed for truss traversal and outfitting in lunar and space environments. The primary function of Cosmic-XT is to climb, navigate, and outfit Tall Lunar Towers (TLTs) with electrical wiring, sensors, lighting, and other secondary systems. Equipped with truss-grippers, an extendable arm, and a harness installer, the robot moves using an inchworm-like motion to attach and secure electrical components to truss structures. Additionally, the Particle AI error detection system enables real-time identification of issues such as tangled wires and foreign object debris. The NASA SBIR Phase I funding will be utilized to advance the technology to TRL 4 maturity, with milestones including a conceptual system design review, a proof-of-concept harness installer mechanism, and a conceptual design review of the AI-based error detection system. This funding supports proof-of-concept development, de-risking technical challenges such as autonomous wire handling, efficient power usage, and AI-driven error detection. The target market includes NASA and commercial space infrastructure providers, focusing on lunar base construction, on-orbit servicing, and autonomous maintenance. Beyond space, potential applications extend to commercial construction, power line maintenance, oil and gas, and disaster response, where robotic outfitting can enhance safety and efficiency in hazardous or hard-to-reach environments. The lunar market alone is estimated at $170 billion, making Cosmic-XT a viable solution for the long-term sustainable development of space infrastructure.