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Sharjah astronomy, space sciences body hosts Martian Robotic Rover workshop

22 Aug 2024

The Martian Robotic Rover workshop in progress.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST), affiliated with the University of Sharjah (UoS), conducted a three-day workshop titled “Martian Robotic Rover 2.1,” delivered by the Planetarium and Outreach Department team.

The workshop is part of SAASST's commitment to enhancing the scientific and technical skills of high school and university students, apart from space enthusiasts, by organising various educational activities within the fields of space exploration, engineering, and technology, using advanced tools and techniques.

The workshop featured a combination of theoretical lectures and hands-on activities, where participants learned how to design, build, and code a Martian rover, as well as remotely control the vehicle using specialised applications and software.

During the workshop.

The workshop also highlighted space missions involving robotics. In this version, the rover was equipped with infrared sensors to accurately follow its path. Participants completed the assembly of the Martian rover and tested the initial code responsible for controlling the rover's motors, enabling it to navigate effectively.

At the end of the workshop, participants tested their rovers on a realistic Martian surface to simulate roaming on Mars and perform various tasks such as navigation and obstacle avoidance.

Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, UoS, honoured the participating students in recognition of their efforts in making the workshop successful.