How does a rover drive on another planet?
Quick Answer
Planetary rovers use electric motors, onboard computers, and hazard-avoidance software to move slowly over rough terrain. They are often driven with commands sent from Earth because of communication delays.
The Full Story
A rover drives with a combination of motorized wheels, suspension systems, and autonomous navigation software. It does not usually move like a remote-control car; instead, engineers send driving plans from Earth and the rover executes them after checking the ground ahead. Mars rovers such as Curiosity and Perseverance use cameras to spot rocks, sand, and slopes before moving. Because signals can take several minutes to travel between Earth and Mars, the rover must make many safety decisions on its own.
Key Facts
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