ISRO Robotics Challenge: Invites Indian Students for Space Exploration

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is inviting Indian students to delve into space exploration. It has introduced the ISRO Robotics Challenge in a significant move towards advancing space science and technology. After following the accomplishment of the successful landing of Chnadrayaan 3 Vikram on the lunar surface, with Pragyan conducting explorations near the south pole of the moon, ISRO is not turning its attention towards robotic exploration missions. In terms of fulfilling its vision, ISRO is inviting the youth of India to contribute innovative ideas and designs through the ISRO Robotics Challenge –URSC 2024 (IRoC – U 2024).

ISRO robotics challenge aims to explore the potential of the student community by challenging them to design wheeled rovers for future space missions. This competition is an open invitation for students to engage in the complete development process, encompassing both hardware and software aspects of these robotics rovers.

The challenge consists of a four-week residential training program and an eight-week virtual training component. While participant selection process involves experts evaluating the readiness of participants' ideas.

The U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) is leading this initiative to ask for proposals for robotic rovers from the youth of India. The objective is to provide a platform for academia and industry to participate in technology development activities aligned with ISRO’s organizational goals. The focus is on nurturing creative thinking and fostering skill development among the youth.

The challenge is a part of ISRO’s broader strategy to develop space robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning technologies. These Innovations are intended to meet the demands of future ISRO missions, including the ISRO In-orbit Servicer Mission, Lunar sample return mission, Docking in Space (SPADEX), and Mars Lander Mission.

The ISRO Robotics Challenge – URSC 2024 presents a unique opportunity for the youth of India to contribute to the future of space exploration. Through this challenge, ISRO aims to co-develop future technologies with students, fostering a collaborative spirit in the field of space robotics. As the final on-site competition is set to take place in August 2024 at URSC Bengaluru Campus, all attention will be on the innovative solutions that the students will bring to the table.