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Alexander Dettmann is a leading figure in planetary robotics, specializing in the development of highly capable multi-legged and heterogeneous multi-robot systems for extreme environment exploration. His work is pivotal in advancing autonomous locomotion and cooperative strategies for future lunar missions. Dettmann’s major contributions include the design and control of the six-legged walking robot MANTIS, a platform that pushes the boundaries of rough-terrain mobility. He also spearheaded the LUNARES project, which demonstrated a heterogeneous team of robots for lunar crater exploration, and has been instrumental in the CoRob-X initiative, focusing on collaborative robot teams for exploring lunar skylights and lava tubes. His research into active artificial spines for quadruped robots has enhanced locomotion stability and adaptability. With over 100 combined citations, his most influential works, including the foundational LUNARES paper (30 citations) and the MANTIS development paper (27 citations), have shaped the field. Dettmann’s work on dust-resistant docking mechanisms and power management for self-reconfigurable systems further underscores his holistic approach to robust, multi-module robotic architectures. His ongoing research into semi-autonomous exploration of lunar cavities positions him at the forefront of technologies that will enable humanity to explore the most inaccessible and scientifically valuable sites on the Moon and beyond.