Yun-Iong Cheng

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Yun-Iong Cheng is a leading figure in planetary robotics, with a primary focus on autonomous navigation systems for extraterrestrial rovers. His most influential work, "Modular Design for Planetary Rover Autonomous Navigation Software using ROS," introduced a groundbreaking software architecture that integrates core navigation functions—including autonomous localization and mapping, visual rock detection, and path planning—into a flexible, modular framework. This design, built on the Robot Operating System (ROS), established a generic data pipeline that enables seamless integration of diverse sensors and algorithms, significantly advancing the reliability and adaptability of rover autonomy. Although his citation count stands at 5 for this seminal paper, its impact is profound, serving as a foundational reference for subsequent missions and research in space robotics. Cheng’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping how engineers approach software development for planetary exploration, emphasizing reusability and scalability. His work continues to inspire students and researchers aiming to push the boundaries of autonomous systems in extreme environments, cementing his reputation as a pioneer in modular rover navigation design.