The purpose of the MARS program is to get the public interested in robotics and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). The demonstration consists of a series of simple robots that are designed to have a low barrier to entry, meaning that almost anyone, big or small, should be able to handle them. The exhibit puts participants in the driver’s seat of a simulant Mars rover mission where they can maneuver their vehicles through a Martian themed obstacle course to analyze target rocks.
The MARS banner began as a generalized program name for both robotic and aerospace related projects. While this particular venture stresses mobile robotics over aerospace the acronym still appears satisfactorily applicable. All robots featured in the MARS Mission are privately constructed from off-the-shelf components. This aspect of their design also necessitates relatively inexpensive and module construction techniques. Recent access to 3D printing has revolutionized this aspect of part production. Parts can be modeled and printed at substantially lower cost and faster speeds than ever before. Even as a low budget operation, the MARS program is still embracing modern technological advancements (as best we can afford).
Lastly, we wish to thank everyone who has contributed or participated in the project. Without the volunteers who keep the program running it would have stalled out like Phobos-Grunt, crashing back to earth in a fiery heap of burnt out rubble. Someone has to swap out batteries and keep the Martians at bay, and our eternal gratitude is extended to these outstanding individuals. Now to the participants in the program, we thank you for voting for STEAM programs, with your time. Without the gracious public support the program has received, it never would have gotten off the launch pad to begin with. Thanks to all, we will see you on MARS!