Ep. 57: Mutta proposes sponge tires for the lunar rover while Pico advises on parachute design.
Aired on May 11, 2013

While Azuma travels to the moon, Mutta’s team tests the rover and identifies necessary repairs. They consider using a glider like another group, but Pico warns that wind would cause problems. Applying his engineering knowledge, Mutta suggests constructing the tires from sponge to allow for larger sizes that fit within the rocket, reduce costs, and absorb shock. Pico is impressed and offers guidance on the parachute, urging the team to view the rover as a spaceship carrying their friends. Thanks to Mutta’s innovations and Pico’s counsel, the team successfully builds a functional rover with a working parachute. Later, Vince takes Mutta for a drive after Pico invites him for a drink.
Episodes
- Ep. 53 · Recap episode where Hibito remembers his past accident on the moon
- Ep. 54 · Recap of Mutta's memories regarding Hibito's launch and JAXA exams
- Ep. 55 · Mutta falls ill during final survival training, forcing his team to carry him while facing a new rover development challenge.
- Ep. 56 · Pico designs a parachute for Hibito's return while Mutta investigates past failures
- Ep. 57 · Mutta proposes sponge tires for the lunar rover while Pico advises on parachute design.
- Ep. 58 · Vince and Mutta discuss spaceflight views while Pico recalls childhood dreams with Rick
- Ep. 59 · Pico and Vince pursue astronaut dreams after Rick's death, while Azuma reaches the moon base.
- Ep. 60 · The team waterproofs rover tires with silicone sealant before a timed launch experiment.
- Ep. 61 · Hibito, Damian, and Linda return to Earth while Mutta gives Pico a rover