OLYMPUS
MARS
Mechatronics, Automation, Robotic Systems. Engineering the next generation of planetary explorers for the European Rover Challenge.
ABOUT THE MISSION
The Olympus MARS team is a multidisciplinary group of student engineers dedicated to solving the complex challenges of extra-terrestrial exploration. Our participation in the European Rover Challenge serves as a crucible for innovation.
Every component of our rover is designed for the unforgiving Martian environment. We focus on four core mission pillars that define our technical approach and strategic execution.
AUTONOMY
Advanced pathfinding algorithms for GNSS-denied environments and real-time obstacle avoidance.
DEXTERITY
A 6-axis robotic manipulator designed for high-precision maintenance and sample handling.
ANALYSIS
On-board laboratory for soil sample acquisition and spectral analysis using custom-built sensors.
TELEMETRY
Redundant communication links with ultra-low-latency high-definition visual feedback streams.
TEAM ARCHITECTURE
MECHATRONICS
Hardware & Mechanics division responsible for the physical rover chassis, suspension systems, and core structural integrity.
AUTOMATION
Control Systems & Navigation. Developing the firmware and logic that translates mission goals into precise mechanical movement.
ROBOTIC SYSTEMS
AI & Perception. Leveraging deep learning and computer vision to allow the rover to understand and map its surroundings.
ERC TASKS
Ten mission objectives our rover must conquer. Each task tests a distinct capability — from autonomous navigation to astrobiology analysis.
Navigation
Autonomous & teleoperated traversal across unstructured terrain.
Probing
Subsurface probing with precision arm-mounted instruments.
Surface Sampling
Collection of regolith samples from the surface layer.
Exploration
Long-range mapping & point-of-interest identification.
Droning
UAV deployment for aerial reconnaissance & scouting.
Maintenance
Panel operation, button pressing & equipment servicing.
Deep Sampling
Core drilling to extract material from below the surface.
Astro-Bio
On-board lab analysis for signs of biological activity.
Science Cache
Retrieval & secured transport of scientific sample containers.
Teleoperation
High-latency remote control from a simulated mission control.
ERC 2026 — Season Target
Our goal is to complete all 10 tasks and place in the top 5 teams at the ERC 2026 competition held in Kielce, Poland.
MISSION LOGS
System Integration Test
Full-scale stress testing of the communication array and motor controllers under simulated Martian dust conditions.
STATUS: Complete — all systems nominal after 72h. Dust ingress at 0.003% tolerance. Motor controller avg. response 12ms.
NEXT: Thermal cycling test before ERC pre-qualification round.
ERC Design Review
Critical evaluation of the 6-axis manipulator assembly. Optimized torque-to-weight ratio for heavy-duty lifting tasks.
STATUS: Design locked. Torque-to-weight improved 18% vs prior iteration. ERC judges awarded a Distinction rating.
NEXT: Manufacturing of final arm assembly begins Q3.
Outreach Workshop
Inspiring the next generation of engineers through hands-on robotics demonstrations at the local science center.
STATUS: 200+ attendees. Rover arm demo received a standing ovation. 14 students joined the mailing list.
NEXT: University open-day collaboration planned for October.
RECRUITMENT PROTOCOL
JOIN THE EXPEDITION
We are seeking ambitious engineers and creatives to push the mission to the next orbital phase. Select your division and apply for the 2026 season.
TECHNICAL SPECS
- 01High proficiency in CAD, C++, or PCB design principles.
- 02Available for 10+ hours per week mission duty.
- 03Passion for space exploration and team-based engineering.
DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2025
MISSION PARTNERS
SUPPORT THE EXPEDITION
Fuel our innovation and power the next generation of robotics. Receive global visibility and high-tech collaboration opportunities.