Thanks to an Andy Thomas Space Foundation grant, the Year 10 and 11 STEM class will work in teams to create and operate Mars rovers using FPV drones and Arduino kits. Student Charlotte H writes:
“We’ll start by researching and learning about Mars, how rovers work and programming. Then we’ll design our rovers, testing them to make sure they function properly and smoothly. Once built we will drive our rovers on a Mars-like map created by the Buzz Aldrin Space Foundation, and trial them on a track that our test team is creating, completing tasks like data collection and obstacle avoidance. Getting the chance to test our rovers in a simulated Martian environment is an experience that many won’t get. Finally, we will compete to have our rover chosen as the best by the Martian Interim Government based on how well both the rover and the team perform. We will then modify the rovers to collect soil samples and other things which will be collected by our drones. Each team needs to come up with a different way that this collection happens, for example by adding an arm to the rover.
This project is an amazing opportunity that connects with subjects like science, technology, engineering and maths. It will help us develop skills in programming, teamwork, and creative problem solving. It’s a hands-on way to learn about space and technology while working on something really exciting.”
