NASA proposed launching a levitating robotic train on the Moon

NASA specialists have presented a plan to create a transport system on the Moon based on levitating robotic trains. The project is called Flexible Levitation on a Track (FLOAT), which translates as “flexible levitation on a track.” The study was published on the official website of the space agency.

FLOAT was part of NASA’s Innovative Advanced Concepts program, designed to develop various “sci-fi” solutions for space exploration.

According to the authors of the initiative, FLOAT will be able to be launched on the Moon in the next decade.

“We want to build the first lunar rail system that will provide reliable, autonomous and efficient transportation of payloads on the Moon,” said project leader Ethan Schaler.

According to the idea, FLOAT will consist of tracks made of three-layer film, over which robots with carts hover. The devices will be able to move at a speed of regarding 1.6 kilometers per hour and transport up to 90 tons of materials per day. Scientists noted that this design will help reduce wear and tear on equipment from contact with hard lunar dust.