I havn't quite gotten into the area of hydraulics yet, so I am hoping this question might generate some answers to a few questions I have.A design I have been helping review calls for the use of hydraulics to manipulate a blade and an arm for a small excavator. You guessed it, on the moon. Airless environment and a lot of nasty dust. the little talk I found on the subject of using hydraulics in space is 1 mention by the designers of the shuttle arm, but didn't go into detail. I am wondering if linear actuators would be better for the design over all due to the less complex nature.
Hydraulic systems are pretty well sealed and have the advantage of being able to be designed to move and manipulate very heavy loads. the space shuttle is loaded with quite a few hydraulic systems.
