Mars Rover Model in Simscape

Six-wheeled electrically-driven rover that navigates uneven terrain to retrieve a sample.

This example models a mars rover that navigates a path on uneven terrain to retrieve a sample.

• Contact forces are modeled between the six driven wheels and the terrain.
• Path following and speed control algorithms adjust the wheel steer angles and speeds to guide the rover to the sample.
• Inverse kinematic analysis is used to plan the rover arm joint angle trajectories that will enable the arm to acquire and store the sample.
• Electric motors can be used to estimate rover power consumption.

Use the "Download from GitHub" button above to access files compatible with the current release of MATLAB.

You can try this example in MATLAB Online.

For earlier MATLAB releases, use "Version History" tab above or these links:

• R2025b, R2025a, R2024b, R2024a, R2023b, R2023a, R2022b, R2022a, R2021b

Open the project file Mars_Rover_Terrain.prj to get started.

Learn how to use Simscape with

• Self-paced tutorials, including multi-domain systems, 3D mechanical systems, circuits, motors, and battery packs.
• Searching posts for the keyword "physical modeling".
• Stories from users: https://www.mathworks.com/solutions/physical-modeling.html

Product Capabilities:

• Simscape
• Simscape Driveline
• Simscape Electrical
• Simscape Fluids
• Simscape Multibody
• Robotics System Toolbox

The rover chassis and arm uses files provided by NASA and shall be used according to NASA Media Usage Guidelines.