Hassanalian Team Tests 2-Part Drone System to Map Mars Lava Tubes Ahead of 2030s Missions
Updated
Updated · Interesting Engineering · May 26
Hassanalian Team Tests 2-Part Drone System to Map Mars Lava Tubes Ahead of 2030s Missions
1 articles · Updated · Interesting Engineering · May 26
Earth-based volcanic caves are now hosting tests of a Mars exploration concept that pairs a parachute-dropped “roly-poly” robot with tiny dandelion-like drones to enter lava tubes no rover has reached.
The system targets tunnels that can run more than 1,200 kilometers long and over 250 meters wide, where Curiosity and Perseverance are too bulky to pass through skylights and surface winds threaten equipment.
Once inside, the mother robot would uncurl and release micro-drones that ride air currents or a built-in fan, using sensors to map passages and measure temperature, humidity and other conditions before relaying data by radio.
The white drones are designed to stay cool and run in darkness using piezoelectric power rather than solar panels, though the team still needs to improve communication range and power efficiency.
No human-made craft has entered a Martian lava tube, but the caves are a priority because they could shield future habitats, hold water ice and preserve signs of ancient life as crewed Mars missions are eyed for the 2030s.
As nuclear power heads to Mars, how will it help tiny new drones search for alien life in volcanic caves?
Can dandelion-inspired drones find water and shelter for humans inside Mars' dark, unexplored lava tubes?
Biomimetic Drone Swarms for Martian Lava Tube Mapping: Strategic Advances Toward Human Mars Missions
Overview
Mostafa Hassanalian's team at New Mexico Tech is leading the development of a swarm of nature-inspired drones to explore and map Martian lava tubes. These drones are designed to navigate complex underground environments, helping scientists uncover hidden geological features beneath Mars' surface. Understanding these features is crucial, as they may reveal important clues about the planet's history and its potential for future human habitation. Martian lava tubes are seen as prime candidates for future human habitats because they offer natural protection from harsh surface conditions, making this research vital for the safety and planning of upcoming crewed missions to Mars.