Rock sampler

Autonomous systems developed for ESA’s ExoMars rover, which will allow it to analyse Martian terrain and identify the best point on rocks to drill for samples without need for human intervention, could treble the speed at which the rover can collect a sample, compared to previous Mars rovers.

In simulations, now being backed up by laboratory tests in the 'Mars Yard' at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth, the rover first builds up a three-dimensional model of its surroundings and then analyses each rock for surfaces suitable for drilling. The rover can then calculate the adjustments needed to position its chassis, robotic arm and instruments to acquire the sample.

'This system allows the rover to do more than find flat areas to drill. The versatility of our system and its ability to pinpoint the best site to take samples, even from complex micro-features on rocks, could be vital when looking for evidence of exobiology,' said Dr Dave Barnes, a Reader in Space and Planetary Robotics at the Computer Science Department at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth.