Systems and mechanical lead for a low-cost, GPS-navigated, and solar-powered rover that aims to travel the South Pole Traverse.
SSI Mars Polar Rover
Our team aims to be the first collegiate rover to reach the South Pole Traverse in Antarctica by 2025 as a proof of concept of our Polar Rover. As the systems lead, I oversee multiple electro-mechanical projects including the enclosure, LIDAR, satellites, solar, thermal, tires, and testing project teams. By setting requirements, managing power and mass budgets, and establishing timelines, I guide a team of 25 undergraduate and graduate students in developing their respective subsystems and integrating them together. Using my mechanical engineering experience, I also help conduct design reviews at different stages of development, from prototyping to iterating and testing.