Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Simon Stapperfend is a pioneering researcher at the forefront of in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) for lunar exploration. His primary focus lies in developing additive manufacturing technologies—specifically mobile selective laser melting (M-SLM)—to transform raw lunar regolith into functional structures, a critical step toward establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon. Stapperfend’s most significant contribution is the MOONRISE payload, a proof-of-principle experiment demonstrating that lunar soil can be melted and solidified layer-by-layer directly on the lunar surface using a compact laser system. This breakthrough, detailed in his 2023 paper (4 citations), could drastically reduce the need for Earth-supplied construction materials, making lunar outposts more sustainable. He also explores CubeSat-based technologies for surface research and has developed simulations for the robotic prototype MIRA3D, advancing autonomous terrain modeling. While his citation counts are modest, reflecting the nascent stage of this field, his work is foundational for future missions like the envisioned Moon Village. Stapperfend’s research bridges robotics, materials science, and space architecture, positioning him as a key architect of humanity’s off-world infrastructure.