Yokogawa Electric Corporation announced that it has signed a research and development agreement with Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) to develop prototype measurement and control equipment for the manned pressurized lunar rover (referred to by Toyota as the "Lunar Cruiser")—a joint development project between Toyota and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
In recent years, significant progress has been made in lunar surface exploration programs. Not only government-funded space agencies are involved, but also a number of commercial enterprises are attempting to carry out lunar landing missions. This manned pressurized lunar rover will serve as Japan’s independent manned space system, which is expected to greatly expand the scope of lunar surface exploration activities. It also features remote control and unmanned operation capabilities, enabling continuous exploration of the lunar surface.
For decades, Yokogawa Electric has provided highly reliable control systems and measuring instruments to enterprises across various industries. Leveraging its extensive experience in the aerospace field and proactive approach to research and development, the company was invited by Toyota to participate in the manned pressurized lunar rover project. The agreement covers the design and procurement for prototype development, aiming to advance the conceptual research conducted by Yokogawa Electric and Toyota on the lunar rover’s control platform and battery measurement components. Yokogawa Electric will continue to collaborate with Toyota on research and development to prepare for launch missions in 2031 and beyond. In the long term, Yokogawa Electric plans to explore new application scenarios by utilizing the technologies matured during the development of the manned pressurized lunar rover.
Hidehito Shiratsu, Head of Yokogawa Electric’s Space Business Development Office, commented: "We are very pleased to collaborate with Toyota Motor Corporation on the development of measurement and control equipment for the manned pressurized lunar rover—equipment that will play a key role in enabling continuous lunar exploration. Yokogawa Electric has identified the space sector as a key focus area for exploration under its medium-term management plan, Growth for Sustainability 2028 (GS2028), and is actively pursuing opportunities in this field. In this process, we are leveraging our strengths in measurement, control, and information technology—technologies that have already withstood the test of harsh environments on Earth, including polar regions and deep seas. The technologies and insights gained from developing products for the even harsher environment of outer space will also be used to enhance the reliability of our existing industrial products and services for Earth-based applications."
(Reprinted from https://news.eccn.com/）