Microbots for Large-Scale Planetary Surface and Subsurface Exploration

Abstract

This proposal presents a new robotic planetary exploration concept based on the deployments of a large number of small spherical mobile robots (microbots) over vast areas of a planet’s surface and subsurface, including structures such as caves and near-surface crevasses. This strategic exploration architecture can enable extremely large-scale, in situ analysis of scientifically interesting properties thus enabling a new paradigm for Solar Systemwide exploration, mapping, and scientific study. This approach represents an important alternative or augmentation to current rover and lander-based planetary exploration, which is limited to studying small areas of a planet’s surface at a small number of sites. The proposed approach is also distinct from balloon or aerial missions, because it allows in situ, direct-contact measurements. Once developed, such units can be custom-tailored to specific mission targets with minimal additional cost.