ABSTRACT
This talk will give an overview of Robotics research and spaceflight implementation at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology. Ongoing research addresses three areas of interest: basic research and concept development for planetary exploration problems, similar basic research for terrestrial problems and funded by non-NASA sponsors (such as DARPA), and technology maturation efforts for specific mission opportunities. Additionally, Robotics personnel directly contribute to existing Flight Projects, such developing the rover and software for the next Mars mission (M2020), or in the operation of current rovers on the planet (Curiosity and Opportunity). Finally, the talk will provide a discussion of how universities and students may engage with JPL to further these endeavors.