Papers
12
Total Citations
481
H-Index
7
About
Curtis Collins is a leading figure in space robotics, whose work has been instrumental in the exploration of Mars. His research focuses on robotic manipulation, trajectory planning, and the development of autonomous systems for extraterrestrial environments. Collins made foundational contributions to robot motion planning, most notably through his highly cited paper “An effective robot trajectory planning method using a genetic algorithm” (179 citations), which introduced an optimization approach that remains influential. His impact is perhaps most visible in his direct involvement with NASA’s Mars missions. As a key contributor to the Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover, Collins co-authored “The Sampling and Caching Subsystem (SCS) for the Scientific Exploration of Jezero Crater” (134 citations), detailing the system designed to collect and store Martian rock and regolith samples for potential return to Earth. He also led accuracy analysis and validation for the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) robotic arm, ensuring the Curiosity Rover could safely and precisely deploy its scientific instruments. Beyond Mars, Collins contributed to the ATHLETE rover’s “FootFall” operations toolset, enabling stable walking locomotion for this versatile six-limbed vehicle. His work on rigid-flexible manipulator control and optimal robot base placement further demonstrates his broad expertise in robotic kinematics and control.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1An effective robot trajectory planning method using a genetic algorithm179 citations · 2003
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- 4Kinematics of Robot Fingers with Circular Rolling Contact Joints30 citations · 2003
- 5Optimal placement of a two-link planar manipulator using a genetic algorithm24 citations · 2005
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- 8Docking the Mars 2020 Perseverance Robotic Arm7 citations · 2022
- 9Keeping the MSL rover safe against slip and settling while sampling3 citations · 2014
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