Lunar Regolith Modeling Analysis Tool

Exploration Architecture Corporation, the University of Michigan 3D Lab, and Plaxis, BV of the Netherlands, collaborate for development of a modeling analysis tool for simulation of lunar regolith (lunar soil) in excavation and construction. Development of the modeling tool is to provide visualization and design optimization assessments of lunar surface excavation systems based on mechanical properties and dynamic interactions of lunar regolith. The team will use the PLAXIS-3D terrestrial soil mechanics models as a starting point and adapt to known regolith characteristics to provide first order of magnitude characterization of regolith flow under 1/6 g conditions and to allow visualization assessments of regolith displacements, digging depth, rake angle and safety factors.