Journey to Mars: Aouda X and Eurobot tested on a Spanish mining terrain

European Space Agency (ESA) and its partner the Austrian Space Forum (ASF) carried out extensive testing of its Aouda X and Eurobot unmanned rover on a mining terrain in Spain. The testing is a precursor to the space agency's effort of taking up missions to Mars.

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The basic purpose of the tests carried out was to see if the systems would function properly in the terrain and environment of Mars. The site of the tests was chosen very carefully. This mining terrain in Rio Tinto, Spain closely resembles the conditions that the scientists might find on Mars. The chemical and geological make up of this area is very similar to the surface of the Red Planet if not exactly same. The mining terrain in Rio Tinto was arid and it also contains a mineral called Jarosite which the scientists think are also found on Mars.

Both these systems have been in development for almost three years and is funded in part by the Europlanet Network. The space suit that was tested is considered to be a state of the art system and the best of its kind currently available anywhere in the world. It is equipped with on board life support systems and high tech computers to make it withstand the heat and dusts of the Red Planet.

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As far as the Eurobot unmanned rover is concerned, it was tested for its ability to handle different kinds of terrain features and its capability to withstand Mars's environment. The Eurobot has been built with a cost of 1.5 million Euros and was transported to Spain from Netherlands. Both the systems were tested together to check for man machine interface.

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The entire test was coordinated by more than 30 people from Mission Control Centre in Innsbruck, Austria. The scientists and engineers involved n the tests were visibly happy with the results as they declared the test to be

dress rehearsal for the biggest journey our civilisation has ever taken.

Via: DailyMail