Rover Mobility Design

Rocker-Bogie Picture
A Prototype Rover Design Showing the Rocker-Bogie Suspension

Rocker-Bogie

The JPL-developed Rocker-Bogie suspension system utilizes a six-wheel drive platform without axles or springs. The system kinematically adapts to terrain geometry and can negotiate obstacles twice the wheel diameter.

Turning in PlacePrecise steering is performed with steering actuators mounted above the four outer wheels. The Rover can turn in place.

Ramps

To aid the Rover in exiting the Lander, ASTRO Aerospace is producing two self-deploying ramps. These ramps are restrained by cables which are cut by pyrotechnic devices. The ramps roll out like party favors onto the Martian surface.

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All information on this site, including text and images describing the Rover is copyright © 1996, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.