Rover Contest

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There will probably be two contests, with two divisions each.

The two divisions are for the "Scout" class mission and the "Sample return" class missions. The requirements are that the entire system must be able to fit into the lander system, (mass, size and power restrictions) and the rovers must be able to survive the rigors of launch, landing, and the lunar night. The rover systems must also include loading and dispersal systems. (depending on class.) the end result is that the entire contest package will be loaded into the lander analogue and operate. There will be some concessions made to the expense required for space certification or the expense of certain technologies, but size/mass equivalents must be installed for the weigh it.

Scoring for the "Scout" class rover will be a combination of capabilities and number in the magazine. Lunar to Earth communications will probably not be required.

Scoring for the "Sample return" class lander will simply be capability. How many kilos of segregated sample (regolith/rock) sample can you put into a sealable container, what can you do to pre-inspect samples before putting them in the container, and what can you do for continued operations after the samples and lander leave. Lunar to Earth communications will probably be required as a backup.

The first contest will probably take part as part of a student group's "games". (Since they are still seeking funding and are publishing paper on subject, we were asked not to name them, but we will issue a full press release when the time is right.) At the time of the Games, We will choose a winner, runner up and two "distinguished technologies", with corresponding prize monies (tbd) and potential manufacturing or licensing contracts. One of prizes will be travel sponsorship to the second contest site. Camaraderie and teamwork between teams will be emphasized. This contest is purely to develop the parameters, and help to determine the types of technologies that will be the most effective. This event is open to all comers.

The second contest will be used to determine the actual flying lander. All participants must be pre-qualified. All tams (and team leaders) from the previous competition will be qualified, and new teams can qualify by achieving the same goals from the previous competition at the runner up level or better.

This competition will take place in a high quality analogue location. (currently locations in Hawai'i is being considered) Rules and restrictions will be similar to the earlier contest. There will only be one prize per division, and that is winner. The winner will fly on the lunar mission. Certain other technologies from other contestants to be incorporated into the flying rover.

Although there will not be a cash prize for winning, the winning rover team will also be contracted for full detail and flyable replicas and licensing for RC "Toy" replica rovers for sale to the general public.

Teams, If you want more details to get started now, please ask questions and offer suggestions in the discussion area.

Good Luck!

Thanks to the Mars Society's URC for the concept.

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