SETU are making significant strides in planetary robotics through the development of an advanced MARS Rover, designed for entry in the European Rover Challenge (ERC) - Europe’s premier space and robotics competition.
The project serves as a platform for high-level innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and hands-on engineering excellence, reinforcing SETU’s growing reputation in advanced technological research and education.
A comprehensive engineering and research initiative
The ERC challenges teams from around the world to design, construct, and operate a rover capable of completing missions modelled on real Martian exploration tasks. These missions span geological surveying, autonomous navigation, robotic manipulation, maintenance operations, and subsurface sampling, requiring a highly integrated approach across mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, and planetary sciences.
SETU’s rover system is being engineered to meet and exceed these requirements. The design incorporates a rugged chassis and suspension system for unpredictable terrain, a precision robotic arm for complex manipulation tasks, a deep drilling mechanism, and regolith collection tools. The team is also implementing an AI-driven navigation system and a robust CAN Bus communication protocol to ensure seamless coordination across the rover’s subsystems.
Interdisciplinary team structure and collaboration
The project is led by Lead Supervisor Andrew Keppel, supported by colleagues across the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment at SETU. The student team bridges first through fourth year, promoting strong knowledge transfer and sustained development across academic cycles. This collaborative model also fosters creativity, technical leadership, and multidisciplinary problem-solving building core competencies required in advanced engineering fields.
Local industry partners contribute materials, specialist guidance, and manufacturing resources, providing students with experience working alongside professionals in a real-world engineering environment. This year, collaboration expanded to include the Science Department at TUS, deepening the project’s scientific foundations and broadening exposure to planetary geology and data analysis techniques.
Educational, technical, and industry impact
The MARS Rover initiative provides students unparalleled exposure to advanced engineering tools, including SolidWorks, Ansys, embedded systems, AI algorithms, and modular robotic design. These experiences deliver significant educational value, preparing graduates for careers in robotics, aerospace, manufacturing, and emerging technology sectors.
Beyond competition, the project strengthens SETU’s position within Ireland’s technological innovation landscape. The rover’s development offers potential pathways for academic publications, presents opportunities for high-calibre internships, and lays the groundwork for future industry partnerships. Through this initiative, SETU continues to cultivate the next generation of engineers and innovators equipped to contribute to the evolving demands of global space and robotics industries.
