Alabama Astrobotics

Alabama Astrobotics is a University of Alabama student team formed in 2009 to design and build extraterrestrial mining rovers. Its mechanical, electrical, software and systems-engineering groups develop hardware, autonomous operation and engineering documentation, alongside STEM outreach. At NASA Lunabotics 2026, the team placed first in Systems Engineering Paper and second in Presentations and Demonstrations. Its published rover design work includes modular drivetrain and payload systems, a double-trencher excavator, LiDAR localization and full-cycle autonomy for collecting lunar regolith simulant and constructing berms.