Autonomous Rover for Space Exploration in Unknown Terrains

Abstract

Space exploration has significantly expanded the understanding of the universe, with autonomous robotic systems playing a pivotal role in investigating extraterrestrial environments. This study presents the design and implementation of an exploratory rover, emphasizing navigation, terrain assessment, actuation, and data acquisition in uncharted environments. The development process was grounded in an extensive review of state-of-the-art technologies, which also resulted in the publication of a comprehensive review paper on the subject. The final prototype was showcased at the international competition Rover Innovation Challenge 2024, where it secured second place in the “Águilas” category. The results highlight the system’s robustness and adaptability, demonstrating its potential as a valuable asset for future autonomous exploration missions in challenging extraterrestrial terrains.