Rover Technology - Rover Technology research in MTP is developing new capabilites for autonomous planetary surface exploration, including long-range traverse, science target approach and instrument placement, and onboard science data processing. Core technical capabiilities that are being expanded under current funding include: proximal, regional, and global navigation; terrain classification; position estimation using visual and inertial methods; manipulation planning and control; and onboard contingent planning and execution. In addition, novel mechanical systems for mobility and sampling are being developed to aid these objectives, and field tests are being performed to exercise technology and expand the envelope of mission concepts.
Software products from all research are required to be delivered into the MTP software infrastructure named "CLARAty". Complementary integration and validation efforts are conducted under the MTP Focused Technology Program to infuse these technologies into future missions. Target missions are MSL where technology components are most mature, or Scout missions, MSR, and AFL, otherwise.
Point of Contact: Paul Schenker
