Planetary Robotics

Helelani Rover
Meet our 700-pound analog planetary rover, Helelani (“heavenly travels”). Helelani is equipped with a suite of instruments and imaging systems that can be controlled remotely, providing a mobile testing platform for planetary surface systems. Space agencies anywhere in the world can operate Helelani tele-robotically in the rugged terrain of high-fidelity planetary analog testing sites on Hawaiʻi Island.
Helelani also provides an ongoing project for undergraduate students seeking hands-on experience in robotics, engineering, and programming. Students in the robotics track of our internship program work to advance and refine the hardware and software systems that operate Helelani.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ontario Drive and Gear (ODG)
- Model: Alpha Argo
- Weight: 726 lbs (without avionics and additional equipment)
- Power: 48V main system provided by two 24V battery systems
- Additional Power Systems: 12V electronics, 12V payload
Control Capabilities
- Hand-held radio controller
- Remote operations using an internet connection
Sensors
- Voltage (for power systems)
- Temperature (for motor surface and avionics enclosure)
- GPS
- IMU (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, barometer)
- Motor RPM
Imaging Systems
- Pan-Tilt Situational Awareness Camera
- Front view Haz Camera
- Rear view Haz Camera
- Stereoscopic Imaging System
- LiDAR
Heʻe Manu UAV
Our Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) named Heʻe Manu (flying octopus) was originally developed as a pest-control project in partnership with the Hawaiʻi County Department of Research & Development. We designed an integrated pesticide dispersion system that could be mounted on the UAV to treat hard-to-reach tree canopies. Heʻe Manu was built and programmed with help from our interns.

Specifications
- Manufacturer: DJI
- Model: S1000
- Weight: 4 Kgs (without pesticide dispersion system)
- Thrust: 2.5 Kgs per rotor
Features
- Professional UAV octocopter
- Retractable landing gear
- Flight time: 15 minutes
- Maximum flight load: Up to 11 Kgs