Science Robotics Archives

Lander prototype during field tests at Matanuska Glacier, Alaska (Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech)

Analog Studies, Arctic / Antarctic / Alpine, Astrogeology, Biochemistry & Organic Chemistry, Biosignatures & Paleobiology, Europa, Exploration Gear & Tech, Icy Worlds, Imaging & Spectroscopy, Missions & Hardware, Robotics/Rovers/UAVs, Status Report

Europa Astrobiology Lander Mission Concept: Autonomous Surface Sampling

by Keith CowingMay 27, 2025May 27, 2025

Europa, a moon of Jupiter, is a high-priority target for space exploration because of its potential to harbor life. A landed mission concept to collect and analyze samples for signs […]

Core components of EELS robot, including perception head, shape actuators that connect each body segment, screws attached to each module, and the tether for data and electrical power transfer. -- NASA

Enceladus, Europa, Icy Worlds, Missions & Hardware, Robotics/Rovers/UAVs, ROVs/Submersibles/Diving, Status Report, Water/Hycean Worlds & Oceanography

EELS: Autonomous Snake-like Robot With Task And Motion Planning Capabilities For Ice World Exploration

by Keith CowingApril 10, 2024April 10, 2024

Ice worlds are at the forefront of astrobiological interest because of the evidence of subsurface oceans. Enceladus in particular is unique among the icy moons because there are known vent […]