JAXA's Transformable Lunar Rover LEV-2 (SORA-Q) Research Published in Science Robotics
Summary
JAXA, in collaboration with TOMY Company, Sony Group Corporation, and Doshisha University, announced that their transformable lunar rover "LEV-2" (also known as "SORA-Q") was featured on the cover of Science Robotics journal. The paper presents research on the rover's lunar demonstration results, including newly released evidence that LEV-2 successfully traveled on the lunar surface. The rover represents a collaborative effort between space exploration and commercial toy/electronics expertise.
Source
Twitter / XJAXA's Transformable Lunar Rover LEV-2 (SORA-Q) Research Published in Science Roboticsglobal.jaxa.jpKey quotes
· 3 pulledWe are pleased to announce that a paper presenting research on the transformable lunar rover 'Lunar Excursion Vehicle 2 (LEV-2),' also known as 'SORA-Q,' has been featured on the cover of and published in the international journal Science Robotics on June 10, 2026.
A second lunar image has been newly released, providing evidence that LEV-2 actually traveled on the lunar surface.
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) performs various activities related to aerospace as an organization, from basic research in the aerospace field to development and utilization.
You might also wanna read
NASA JPL's new prototype rover completes 16-mile autonomous desert trek with advanced suspension
NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory has developed a new four-wheeled prototype rover designed for high-speed, long-distance autonomous explorat
interestingengineering.com·1d ago
NYU Tandon's 2026 Research Excellence Exhibit Showcases Engineering Innovations from Lunar Rovers to Bioplastics
The 2026 NYU Tandon Research Excellence Exhibit showcased a wide range of engineering innovations, including a humanoid robot, lunar rover,
buff.ly·10d ago
NASA Develops AI-Powered Autonomous Rover Prototype for Lunar and Mars Missions
NASA is testing a prototype rover with advanced capabilities for future Moon and Mars missions. The rover features a new rugged terrain desi
jpl.nasa.gov·23h ago
Chinese researchers develop solar-powered machine to turn lunar soil into construction bricks
A Chinese research team from the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory (DSEL) in Hefei has developed a prototype machine that uses concentrated
Review of asteroid sample return missions: Hayabusa, Hayabusa2, and OSIRIS-REx
This article discusses the three asteroid sample return missions to date: JAXA's Hayabusa and Hayabusa2, and NASA's OSIRIS-REx. It highlight
isas.jaxa.jp·25d ago
NASA Selects Venturi Astrolab to Develop Crewed Lunar Rover for Artemis Program
NASA has selected Venturi Astrolab as one of two primary contractors to develop next-generation crewed lunar rovers for the Artemis program.
aviationnews.eu·23d ago