Engineers are developing a new type of rover for Mars exploration, inspired by the African sandfish lizard. This reptile 'swims' through desert sand using a unique undulating motion. Researchers have translated this into a rover design where specially designed wheels move in a figure-eight pattern, effectively pushing through sand rather than just rolling over it.
This biomimetic approach aims to overcome the significant challenges posed by Mars's sandy surface, where traditional wheeled rovers can get stuck or lose traction. Early tests indicate that the sandfish-inspired rover demonstrates improved stability and mobility in simulated Martian conditions, offering a potential breakthrough for future planetary exploration vehicles.
