RSX Sample Retrieval Module

A video of the science module in action in the Alberta Badlands in 2023.

This project was done as the lead of the Robotics for Space Exploration’s (RSX) Science sub-team. The goal is to make a system to autonomously excavate and contain soil samples for further analysis, and then analyze the soil for signs of life present in the environment. This was done as a part of the CIRC 2023 Competition in Drumheller, AB, Canada.

The Team comprised of myself and 6 other junior members and involved collaborating with the all the other sub teams at RSX. Beyond this module, the Science subteam designs scientific experiments to test for traces of signs of life, designs the mechanical and electrical systems used and implements the software required to autonomously complete the tasks.

Picture of the Full Rover with the Science Module in place, tested in the Alberta Badlands in 2023.

Sample Retrieval Module being tested on the grass

Closeup of the Sample Retrieval Module's drill in Alberta

Pictures of the Sample Retrieval Module being tested on grass and closeups of the drill in Alberta.

Partially Assembled Sample Retrieval Module

Sideways profile of the Sample Retrieval Module after being partially assembled.