Our mission is to push the boundaries of robotics, engineering, and science through hands-on experience, innovation, and teamwork. We aim to inspire the next generation of space explorers by designing, building, and competing with advanced Mars Rovers that solve real-world challenges in space exploration.
How We Live Our Mission
Innovation and Excellence
Pushing the boundaries of space exploration through cutting-edge technology and rover design.
Our commitment to innovation lies at the heart of our mission. We strive for excellence in everything we do, whether we’re designing autonomous navigation systems or building scientific instruments. By continuously pushing the limits of what’s possible, we make our mission a reality.
Caption: Our 2024 Rover, Hyperion, looking off into the subset after the 2024 University Rover Challenge Awards Ceremony.
We continuously strive for innovation, creating state-of-the-art Mars rovers equipped with advanced scientific instruments and autonomous systems. Our multidisciplinary team combines expertise in engineering, programming, and science to develop solutions for real-world space exploration challenges.
Teamwork and Collaboration
Working together to build a future of exploration.
Teamwork is essential to our mission. By fostering a culture of collaboration, we empower each team member to contribute to solving complex engineering challenges. Together, we learn, grow, and innovate, constantly driving our mission forward.
Caption: Collaboration at the core — our team wiring the rover during the final stages of assembly.
At the heart of our success is teamwork. Our collaborative approach encourages creativity, idea-sharing, and problem-solving. Team members work across subteams to bring ideas to life, ensuring that every project benefits from diverse perspectives and skills.
Education and Outreach
Our mission extends beyond our team; it’s about inspiring others to join the journey of space exploration. Through outreach programs and hands-on workshops, we share our knowledge and passion with students and communities, empowering the next generation of explorers.
Hands-on Experience
Real-world application of classroom concepts, from building rovers to scientific data collection.
- Design and Build: Team members participate in every stage of rover development, from concept and design to assembly and testing. This practical experience helps develop skills in engineering, software, and project management.
- Field Testing: We regularly conduct field tests to simulate Martian conditions, enabling team members to test rover performance in challenging environments and refine their problem-solving abilities.
- Mentorship: Senior team members mentor new recruits, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone’s contributions are valued.
STEM Education
Engaging the next generation of explorers through workshops and outreach programs.
- Outreach Programs: Our team runs interactive STEM workshops at schools and community events, where students can get hands-on experience with robotics and engineering concepts. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts.
- Workshops and Presentations: We organize workshops that introduce students to basic programming, robotics, and the engineering behind Mars rovers, sparking interest in STEM fields.
- Mentorship Programs: In addition to large-scale workshops, we offer one-on-one mentoring for students interested in deeper exploration of STEM topics, providing guidance from experienced team members.
Competition
Opportunities to test skills and showcase our work in the international University Rover Challenge.
- Our Role in URC: Each year, we compete in the URC, an international competition where teams from around the world design, build, and operate Mars rovers. This competition pushes our team to develop innovative solutions in robotics, autonomous navigation, and scientific exploration.
- Achievements: Our team has consistently performed well at the URC, placing [mention specific achievements or rankings if you want to highlight them]. This competition provides real-world challenges that help us hone our skills and push the boundaries of rover technology.
- The Road to URC: Preparing for the URC is a year-long journey that involves collaboration across multiple disciplines, rigorous testing, and constant innovation. This experience allows our team to grow and evolve each year, with the ultimate goal of excelling at the competition.
Caption: Inspiring the next generation of engineers and scientists through hands-on STEM education.
Pushing the Boundaries of Space Exploration
Our mission is to not only participate in the University Rover Challenge but to redefine what’s possible in space exploration. Every rover we design and test, every challenge we overcome, and every competition we enter pushes the envelope of innovation.
Caption: Compare our first rover, Akers (2012-2013), to our latest rover, Hyperion (2023-2024).
As we look to the future, our focus remains on creating advanced technologies for Mars exploration. Every rover we build pushes the envelope of what’s possible, helping to prepare for missions that will one day explore Mars and beyond.
Watch Our System Acceptance Review Video
Get an inside look at how our rover passed the rigorous System Acceptance Review (SAR) process.
As we push the boundaries of Mars exploration, this video provides a behind-the-scenes look at the steps we take to ensure our rover is ready for the challenges ahead.
Join Us on Our Journey
Our mission isn’t just a statement—it’s a call to action. Whether you’re interested in joining our team, sponsoring us, or following our journey, you’ll be helping to shape the future of space exploration.
Caption: Our team celebrates on “Pride Rock” after the awards ceremony at the 2024 University Rover Challenge.
Get Involved
- Join Now: Join our team and contribute to building the next generation of Mars Rovers.
- Sponsor Us: Support our mission by sponsoring our team and helping us achieve our goals.
- Follow Our Progress: Stay connected and see our progress in real-time by following us on social media.
- Instagram: @missourimrdt
- Facebook: Missouri S&T Mars Rover Design Team
- YouTube: Missouri S&T Mars Rover Design Team
Whether you’re joining the team, sponsoring our efforts, or following us online, you’ll be part of a journey that’s taking us closer to the stars.