AEGIS: Autonomous Exploration for Gathering Increased Science
Description
AEGIS enables intelligent targeting and data acquisition by planetary rovers. It uses computer vision techniques to identify targets (e.g., rocks) in wide angles images of the rover's surrounding terrain. If targets are found that match scientists specificiations, they are then measured autonomously using remote sensing instruments. AEGIS was first used on the MER Mission. It is currently in use on the MSL Mission to acquire data for the ChemCam instrument. It is planned for use in Spring of 2022 on the M2020 Mission to acquire data for the SuperCam instrument.
Detailed example
Recommendations of relevant objects, e.g., Mars rocks, for scientific examination.
AI / analytics pattern
Classical/Predictive Machine Learning: Models trained on data to make predictions or classifications based on identified patterns or relationships.
Automation level / stage
c) Deployed – The use case is being actively authorized or utilized to support the functions or mission of an agency.
Expected benefit
AEGIS enables intelligent targeting and data acquisition by planetary rovers. It uses computer vision techniques to identify targets (e.g., rocks) in wide angles images of the rover's surrounding terrain. If targets are found that match scientists specificiations, they are then measured autonomously using remote sensing instruments. AEGIS was first used on the MER Mission. It is currently in use on the MSL Mission to acquire data for the ChemCam instrument. It is planned for use in Spring of 2022 on the M2020 Mission to acquire data for the SuperCam instrument.
Controls / human review
ATO: No; PIA: Not published
Data needed
wide angles images of the rover's surrounding terrain