Project GRAKSLER – A unique approach to robotics

Project GRAKSLER (Geostationary Rope-Anchored Kit for Space-Lift Engineering Research), originally called the “Space Elevator Project”, was the first robotics oriented project within the WARR Association back in 2007.

The long term focus of the project lays on developing the concept of an autonomous vertical climber to facilitate the transport of cargo from Earth into geostationary orbit as part of a larger, theoretical space elevator.

Functionally however, GRAKSLER can also serve as a mobility aid on extraterrestrial structures and zero-gravity environments, provided there is a cable (tether) or rail it can travel along. It can therefore also be seen as the conceptual evolution of the CETA (Crew and Equipment Translation Aid) mobile platform used by Astronauts during construction work on the International Space Station in 2002.

This versatility is exactly what makes GRAKSLER unique within WARR – it is a platform which can be adapted to suit multiple purposes and therefore is the perfect project for hands-on engineering and experimentation. There is no “right way” of building a space elevator as of yet, which means the sky is not the limit – it is simply the next stop for space exploration technology.

Our members come from various academical backgrounds such as mechanical, software and electrical engineering and are a small but very closely-held group, who join forces constantly to push the limits of what can be achieved in robotics today while also putting their work to the test against other teams internationally during the yearly Space Elevator Competition held in Japan (JSPEC).

GRAKSLER 4.3 – Our most up to date climber at a glance

GRAKSLER 4.3 carries forward the spirit of the original space elevator project, while leveraging the knowledge and experiences gathered over generations of team members. It has participated in the Japan Space Elevator Challenge since the platform’s introduction in 2020 and also the European Space Elevator Challenge (EUSPEC) formerly hosted at the Technical University of Munich.

Designed, manufactured and programmed fully in house – over 90% of our climber’s components are made by our own members at our facilities. It is designed to be as lightweight as possible (~15kg weight unloaded) while still having a large carrying capacity (up to 100kg). To achieve both a robust and light construction, the majority of its body is made out of a combination of machined aluminium, carbon fiber and 3D printed components. Measuring about 1.5 meters in length, the climber is quite compact and can be carried by a single person alone.