Robotic Space Exploration

The Robotic Space Exploration (RoSE) lab advances methods for mobile autonomous robots in diverse space environments, from satellites in orbit to underwater vehicles in extraplanetary oceans to planetary rovers on lunar or Martian soft soil. Our algorithms enable robots to navigate and conduct scientific exploration in extreme, scientifically-rich settings. My work leverages dynamics and control theory integrated with machine learning models and planetary science domain knowledge to equip robots with the intelligence to interpret unpredictable and unknown terrain conditions in real time, ensuring safe and efficient traversal. Ultimately, we aim to create robotic explorers capable of replacing or complementing human missions, digitizing the roles of both scientists and explorers in high-risk environments.

Our Strategy

To address the complex challenges of robotic autonomy and mobility in extreme planetary environments, my research leverages a combination of analytical modeling, machine learning, and hardware experiments (real robot deployment). We develop and utilize advanced terramechanics models and custom-designed planetary surface testbeds to study soil-robot interactions under varied terrain conditions. Tools such as Isaac Sim and ROS2 enable high-fidelity digital twin environments for testing perception, planning, and control algorithms. Our techniques include active learning, system identification, and uncertainty quantification to improve the robustness of autonomy in unpredictable settings like lunar or Martian regolith. We integrate multisensor perception systems, including stereo vision, IMUs, and GNSS-denied localization, to support real-time decision-making. Together, these tools and methods allow us to explore and validate robotic strategies for navigation, science sampling, and surface-subsurface exploration in support of future planetary missions.

Our Impact

Work on Real Space Missions
The technologies we develop could one day operate on the Moon, Mars, or even Europa. Your work won’t just stay in the lab—it could help shape the future of space exploration.
Design and Build Actual Robots
You’ll get to design, build, and test robotic systems with your own hands. Whether it’s mechanical design, coding, or wiring up sensors, there’s something for everyone.
Explore Uncharted Terrain
We build robots that can explore the kinds of places humans can’t reach—steep craters, soft regolith, and subsurface environments—just like future space missions will have to.
Use AI and Machine Learning in the Wild
Interested in data and autonomy? We use tools like active learning and neural networks to help our robots make smart decisions in tough, unpredictable environments.
Make Space Exploration More Sustainable
Our research helps lower the cost and complexity of planetary missions, making space science more accessible and resilient.
Learn Across Disciplines
Whether you’re into mechanical engineering, computer science, electronics, or planetary science, you’ll get to collaborate across fields and build a diverse skillset.
Contribute to Open-Source Projects
You can contribute to tools and platforms used by researchers around the world—and leave behind a legacy that others can build on.
Field Test in Planet-Like Environments
We don’t just test in simulation—we take our robots out to environments that look and feel like the Moon or Mars.
Publish and Present Your Work
Many of our undergrads co-author scientific papers and present their work at conferences. It’s a chance to get your name out there and build an academic reputation early.
Inspire Future Explorers
You’ll also have the chance to do outreach—sharing your knowledge with younger students and helping build a more inclusive future for space and robotics.

Apply to this VIPER Team

Our Team

Advisor Frances Zhu​

frankie.zhu@mines.edu

 

Preferred Majors to Recruit

Mechanical Engineering