A failed proposal 2009.07.31 (PDF in Japanese)
Anthropomorphism is the key for interactive applications of robots. Discussions whether a robot should be anthropomorphic or non-anthropomorphic are in most cases superficial. It is also the case for robots to explore on the moon. This is a proposal about “Humanoids on the Moon” that I submitted on July 31st 2009 to “Funding Program for World-Leading Innovative R&D on Science and Technology” of MEXT, Japan. I have had many unsuccessful proposals and this is one of them. Although I see many good reasons for being unsuccessful, I would like to share it because I tried to make it clear why Humanoid on the Moon. Hoping it help deepening the discussion.