Technology development and testing for enhanced Mars Rover Sample Return operations

This paper describes several Jet Propulsion Laboratory research efforts being conducted to support Mars sample return in the coming decade. After describing the 2003/05 mission scenario, we provide an overview of new technologies emerging from three complementary research efforts: Long Range Science Rover, Sample Return Rover, and FIDO Rover. The results show improvements in planning, navigation, estimation, sensing, and operations for small rovers operating in Mars-like environments.