ARIES: Autonomous Robotic Intelligent Explorer Sphere

Lava tubes on celestial bodies like the Moon and Mars offer promising sites for future human habitats due to their natural shielding from harsh surface conditions, such as radiation and extreme temperatures. However, exploring these underground structures presents significant challenges. Current robotic systems often struggle with the rugged and unpredictable terrain found inside lava tubes, where steep slopes, loose surfaces, and narrow passages can hinder movement. Additionally, the lack of direct communication signals within these underground environments complicates the remote control of exploratory vehicles, making autonomous navigation a critical requirement for successful missions.

The ARIES (Autonomous Robotic Intelligent Explorer Sphere) is an innovative spherical robot specifically designed to tackle the challenges of exploring complex underground environments like lava tubes. Unlike traditional robots, ARIES uses a unique cylindrical pendulum mechanism to control its movement, allowing it to maintain stability while navigating uneven surfaces. This design frees up space inside the robot for essential exploration tools, such as cameras and sensors, enabling it to gather critical data while rolling smoothly over obstacles. ARIES’s ability to maneuver in all directions with minimal mechanical complexity makes it a robust solution for future space missions requiring safe and efficient exploration of unstructured terrains.