As humans set out to explore the solar system, traversing interplanetary space is only the beginning. Mars’ dusty red rocks, canyons and uneven terrain will challenge rovers, robots and humans in new and formidable ways. The next generation of space research will require next-generation robots.

Led by Dr. Robert Ambrose, the Robotics and Automation Design (RAD) Lab at Texas A&M University is designing these next generation robots that will enable further space exploration. But robots are not the only thing evolving in the RAD Lab. Dozens of students — including mechanical engineering Ph.D. candidate Sarah Lam — are developing the necessary skills to become engineering leaders through hands-on robotics research.

Lam began studying robotics and mechanical engineering while earning her bachelor’s degree at MIT, but hands-on robotics experience was limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic. When she learned about the practical robotics experience and project leadership opportunities possible at the RAD Lab, she knew it was the perfect place to continue her studies.

“Robotics is such an interesting field because it combines the question of how a machine functions with the idea of unique designs,” Lam said. “Not only does a robot have to work, but it also has to look nice.”  

Today, Lam is a leader on the lab’s rover team, which focuses on how rovers with different control systems move in different environments. Most of Lam’s time is spent improving the RAD Exploration Vehicle (REV) — named for the Texas A&M mascot, Reveille — an active suspension robot that combines the benefits of wheeled and legged rovers, creating a more stable, agile and efficient rover.

REV’s unique design allows it to lift its legs to handle uneven terrain and use its wheels and active suspension to climb steep slopes. This combination makes for a rover that can go where other rovers cannot — including the rough terrains of the moon and Mars.

NASA has built larger robots with a similar design to REV. As a scaled down version, REV works as a prototype to test different control systems that can be used by NASA’s larger rovers during future space missions.

Another advantage of REV is its modularity and use of First Robotics parts. These features allow researchers to easily take the rover apart to install new controls or replace broken parts.

“REV is a great way for us to maximize our understanding of different control systems,” Lam said. “Because REV is relatively easy to take apart, and the parts are replaceable, we are able to push its limits during testing. We don’t have to be afraid of breaking REV, which is a huge advantage.” 

Lam, who plans to complete her doctorate in 2027, refers to robotics as “a team sport.” She said collaboration and mentorship are a crucial part of robotics and the RAD Lab, allowing maximization of skills and viewpoints shared amongst teammates.

Working on a rover like REV is a truly multidisciplinary project, requiring knowledge of mechanical, electrical, software engineering and more. When there is a skill required that Lam is unfamiliar with — like a new coding software — she takes the initiative to teach herself the skill, or to find someone who can teach it to her. 

“We are very lucky to have Sarah in our lab. She’s smart, a hard worker and an all-around good person,” said Ambrose, director of the RAD Lab and J. Mike Walker ’66 Chair Professor in the mechanical engineering department. “She has a curiosity and drive to learn that is sure to set her up for success in her career as an engineer.”