Aim: Develop an autonomous rover capable of navigating extraterrestrial terrains while performing scientific tasks — image capture, sample collection, and soil analysis.
Phase 1: Robust suspension system for diverse terrains, autonomous navigation, robotic arm design, and integration of scientific instruments. Key challenges: terrain mapping without GPS and atmospheric hazard detection.
Phase 2: Adds a drone for surface mapping/reconnaissance and a charging environment for extended operations — including airfoil design for low-pressure atmospheres and a magnetic charging system.
Sponsor: Nishanth Gopinathan Project Head: Naveen P Suresh Current Status: Design of the basic rover technology demonstrator completed; fabrication of some parts in progress, final assembly ~75% completed
