Components Donated for Lunar Rover Challenge

The donations enables the team to better compete by improving robotic and automation technology for space applications. Their space rover will traverse up to 80,000 sq. meters, avoid obstacles, navigate, and locate different samples autonomously. The rovers' drive trains consist of two wheel pods, each having two sets of XL pulleys and belts which are powered by a 100W DC gear motor. The motors each drive a 90^o miter gear arrangement, which allows them to sit inside each wheel pod. The belt drive expansion allows more reduction capability and shock absorption.

Positive Impact
Members of Team SpacePRIDE will compete in June at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. With the donation from SDP/SI, SpacePRIDE was able to complete the construction of its "swarm" of robots for the competition. With less time having to be spent fundraising for these parts, SpacePRIDE has been able to dedicate more time to robotics education in a local maker space and in local public schools. Team SpacePRIDE will be in competition with 11 other teams for the grand prize of $1.5 million.