Martian Lava Tube Exploration with Inflatable Vehicle System

The Spatial Exploration with Robotic Observers (SpERO) Mission is a system designed for the exploration of Martian lava tubes. As humanity seeks to send manned missions to Mars, the need for shelter from the harsh conditions of the surface arises. Lava tubes are suspected to provide significant insight into the geology of Mars, as well as protect from the harsh radiation and temperature fluctuations found. SpERO proposes to explore lava tubes using a multi-component system consisting of a solar balloon that delivers an inflatable rover to Martian lava tube entrances. This system aims to collect environmental data, including 3D point maps, images, and temperature and radiation readings. To validate the mission feasibility, the team has designed a prototype to test the mission concept.