On the planet Venus, where temperatures soar to 462 degrees Fahrenheit and clouds of sulphuric acid devour any electronics, a completely new approach to space exploration is needed. A team of students from the University of Southampton has taken up this extreme challenge, developing something straight out of a steampunk novel: an all-mechanical rover that could lend a big hand to a future mission to Venus.
Venus Mission: A “Clockwork” Challenge
Se Mars has received great attention from space programs, Venus has remained relatively unexplored. The reason is simple: conditions on the planet are extremely hostile. With temperatures reaching 462 degrees Celsius, intense atmospheric pressure and clouds of sulfuric acid, Most electronic devices wouldn't survive more than a few minutes.
For this reason, in view of a mission to Venus, the NASA has begun exploring the concept of an all-mechanical rover. A team of students from theUniversity of Southampton, Led by Beardy Penguin (nice name), has decided to take up this ambitious challenge.
The project represents a paradigm shift in space exploration, demonstrating how sometimes the simplest solutions can be the most effective in extreme conditions.
An ingenious obstacle detection system
The rover was designed with four main subsystems: obstacle detection, mechanical computer, locomotion (tracks) and transmission. Il obstacle detection system It is particularly ingenious in its simplicity.
Three triple rollers positioned at the front of the rover (left, center, and right) trigger inputs to the mechanical computer when they encounter an obstacle of a certain size. The inputs indicate the position of each roller (up/down), and the combination determines the appropriate maneuver to overcome the obstacle.
The team used dynamic system modeling, simulation and analysis software to design the logic circuit, consisting of AND, OR and NOT gates, creating a real mechanical computer at five levels.
Power and movement in extreme conditions
Given Venus's high-pressure atmosphere, a wind turbine has long been proposed as a viable power source for a Venusian rover. For this test project, it was replaced by a 40-watt electric motor.
The transmission system uses an ingenious mechanism that changes the direction of rotation by driving the satellite carrier with the sun gear or locking it in a stationary position. This solution allows the rover to move efficiently on rough terrain.
Venus Mission, Results and Future Prospects
Like many similar engineering projects, the physical results were mixed, but the educational value was immense. The team managed to get individual subsystems working, though not a fully integrated prototype.
The project has received several awards, including third place in an international challenge. More importantly, it has paved the way for another team to continue the work and refine the subsystems, demonstrating how space innovation is a continuous process of improvement and collaboration.