The Challenge

Compared to the Martian surface, where we have fairly high resolution data of the areas NASA wants to explore, we have low resolution data available for the surface of Enceladus. For example, in the highest resolution images of the surface of Enceladus, 1 pixel is equivalent to 12.5km2, as shown in the image above.

EELS is designed to compensate for the lack of data by being exceptionally well-prepared with multi-modal perception and mobility, and state-of-the-art autonomy capabilities.

The EELS robot proposes fundamentally different architecture and operating principles to previous flagship spacecraft like the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers. The Mars rovers typically have 6 wheels and traverse horizontally across the Martian surface similar to a car. EELS, on the other hand, has a dynamic, snake-like body with 12 bend joints, 12 twist joints, and 22 screws. This mechanical complexity allows EELS to move with 8 different gaits, enabling mobility across 8 different types of terrain.

The staggering versatility provided by this mechanical complexity likewise requires necessary complexity in the operations software.