Description: The In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) Pilot Excavator Bucket Drum Flow experiment is designed to assess the performance of a regolith collection method that relies on bucket drum excavation technology. This technology allows regolith to be collected as the drums rotate, and then dispensed as they rotate in the opposite direction. These opposing rotations happen simultaneously to counteract excavation forces. The technology could be used on the Moon and other planets to enable low-mass robotic excavators to dig in low gravity environments.

Benefits: The In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) Pilot Excavator Bucket Drum Flow experiment is designed to assess the performance of a regolith collection method that relies on bucket drum excavation technology. This technology allows regolith to be collected as the drums rotate, and then dispensed as they rotate in the opposite direction. These opposing rotations happen simultaneously to counteract excavation forces. The technology could be used on the Moon and other planets to enable low-mass robotic excavators to dig in low-gravity environments. This has the potential to benefit NASA missions, the commercial space industry, other government agencies, and the nation.