Kalman is the successor to AGH Space Systems’ initial rover design, Phobos. It is a four-wheeled research vehicle that incorporates entirely new technological solutions. The rover is equipped with advanced vision systems—including depth cameras and analog cameras—allowing for remote control and detailed terrain documentation.
A Complete Vehicle for Mars Exploration
Kalman features a manipulator arm capable of performing a variety of functions, such as transporting objects, conducting basic repair tasks, and operating control panels. In addition, the rover includes a mobile research laboratory designed for soil sample analysis.
Its independently steerable wheels allow the rover to rotate on its axis and move sideways, enhancing maneuverability on difficult terrain. Kalman is also equipped with an autonomous driving mode, enabling it to navigate independently to designated coordinates in previously unexplored areas.
All of these features provide Kalman with fully robotic functionality—essential for traversing the challenging Martian landscape, testing innovative engineering solutions critical to exploration missions, analyzing soil samples in the search for signs of life, and supporting astronauts with minimal operator input.
International Success
The development of Kalman has resulted in notable success in international mobile robotics competitions, particularly the Rover Challenge series—one of the most prestigious events in the field of student robotics. These competitions serve as the ultimate test and culmination of a year’s work on the rover’s design and engineering.
Organized by researchers and space-focused research centers, these events ensure a thorough and objective evaluation of participating projects. One of the most significant achievements of AGH Space Systems to date is their first-place victory at the Australian Rover Challenge 2025.
