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The European Space Agency (ESA), Airbus and European partners have tested a Mars rover prototype in Spain’s Tabernas Desert. The six-wheeled vehicle, named “Charlie,” was used to simulate conditions expected during a future Mars mission.
The prototype was remotely operated by satellite on Thursday from the Rover Operations Control Centre in Turin, Italy. The trials aimed to test technologies and procedures for the ExoMars Rosalind Franklin mission, which is expected to land on Mars in 2030 and search for signs of past or present life.
Rover’s autonomous movement tested
Vincent Scheffer, head of the Airbus Defence and Space team, said the trial was intended to prepare staff at the control centre in Turin to operate the rover in conditions similar to those on Mars.
One of the main challenges is the communications delay between Earth and Mars. It can reach 45 minutes, making real-time control of the rover impossible.
For this reason, “Charlie” is being tested for its ability to move autonomously between preselected points. The rover is expected to travel up to 60–70 metres per day, including through areas operators have not seen in advance.
Scheffer said the rover’s main task is not to move quickly, but to cover long distances safely while conducting scientific research. The tests also examined scientific activities that the Rosalind Franklin rover is expected to carry out and assessed the latest version of its autonomous navigation system.
Mars research could help explain Earth’s climate
ESA says studying Mars could also help scientists better understand Earth. Benoit Pouffary, the agency’s head of exploration preparation, research and technology, said investigating changes in Mars’ climate and atmosphere could broaden knowledge of climate mechanisms on Earth.
European researchers are also working on more precise landing technologies. These could allow future missions to target areas of Mars that are more difficult to explore.
