Planetary Analog Environment

Planetary analog environments are terrestrial locations mimicking the conditions of other celestial bodies, enabling researchers to test robotic systems and scientific instruments for future planetary exploration missions. Current research focuses on developing robust robotic locomotion and navigation strategies for challenging terrains, including granular materials and steep slopes, often employing advanced sensor fusion techniques like multi-sensor SLAM and proprioceptive slip detection to overcome limitations of visual-based systems in low-light or featureless environments. These studies are crucial for advancing autonomous exploration capabilities and improving the efficiency and safety of future robotic missions, ultimately expanding our ability to conduct scientific investigations on diverse planetary surfaces.