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Summer Interns - 2020

Name Home Institution Program Point of Contact Task Name
Abate, Marcus Massachusetts Institute of Technology JVSRP Ben Morrell Next Generation Autonomous Robots for Exploring Space and Earth
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. The main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning, machine learning, and field testing.
Abundo, Madison Northeastern University HR Adriana Wall Business Administration
Activity:
Agrawal, Sapan Santosh Worcester Polytechnic School JVSRP Kalind Carpenter Robust Guidance Navigation and Control
Activity: The objective is to push the state-of-art GNC technologies by focusing on proprioceptive sensing.
Aiazzi, Carolina Politecnico di Milano JVSRP Marco Quadrelli Modeling, Simulation, and Control of Planetary Vehicles
Activity: The project involves physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of space vehicles using the JPL's DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics and control algorithms used in these real-time simulations.
Alatur, Nikhilesh Athresh ETH Zurich JVSRP Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Robotic Autonomy and Mobility Concept Design
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the robotic mobility group in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Almalioglu, Yasin University of Oxford JVSRP Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Next Generation Robots and AI for Exploring Space and Earth
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the robotic mobility group in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Ambrose, Eric  
Activity:
Aucone, Emanuele University of Pisa JVSRP Patrick McGarey Enhancing mobility and control of the DuAxel rover system
Activity: This project will specifically look at developing rover control algorithms that will enhance the overall mobility of the DuAxel system on different types of terrain. currently mobility is somewhat crude due to Axel’s grouser style wheels.
Bechini, Michele Politecnico of Milan JVSRP Marco Quadrelli Modeling, Simulation, and Control of Planetary Vehicles
Activity: The project involves physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of space vehicles using the JPL's DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics and control algorithms used in these real-time simulations.
Bisht, Reshu University of Southern California JPLGF Yumi Iwashita Chevron tight rock project
Activity: The project will focus on developing deep learning-based methods to predict oil/gas production. More specifically, the student will work on the following 2 tasks: 1. ML predictor of early-period (3-6 months) performance A predictive forecast of production performance in early-period with identification of most informative parameter influencing production profile. Distribution of plausibility of observable UC pattern occurrences during this period may include prediction of survival time of the anomaly event preferably including right censoring (pattern non-occurrence). 2. ML operational noise filter to minimize effects of noise on production data Algorithmic classifier that utilizes operational event labelling and filters operational event noise and boosts signal-noise ratio in early-period daily production data. Every 2 weeks JPL and Chevron have a regular meeting and the student is expected to join the meeting.
Blacklock Benjamin Georgia Institute of Technology HR
Activity:
Bochicchio, Alfredo Sant'Anna University JVSRP Brett Kennedy Tactile Gripper Development
Activity: Develop tactile sensing. Incorporate it into an end effector to be used on Robosimian. Experimental study about tactile telepresence for remote operation in space ann robotics applications at JPL. The joint research activity between JPL-NASA and SSSA will address modelling and physical integration of tactile sensing technologies such as Fiber Bragg Gratings encapsulated in soft-materials, and the application of novel bioinspired information compression techniques such as neuromorphic encoding and event-based signalling. This will allow to achieve, at the same time, high informativity as well as real-time communication, processing and display of tactile data. We will incorporate this tactile sensor into an end effector to enhance the operation and capabilities of Robosimian.
Boroson, Elizabeth University of Southern California NSTRF Jean-Pierre de la Croix Learning Coordination for Multi-Rover Planetary Exploration
"Activity: The goal of this research is the development of algorithms for coordination for a group of heterogeneous robots exploring, mapping, and operating in a previously unknown environment during planetary exploration. Within this goal, it is planned to develop map representations useful for heterogeneous robots performing a variety of both scientific and operational tasks. It is also planned to develop methods to build those maps accurately, efficiently, and reliably. "
Boscolo Camiletto, Andrea Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna JVSRP Brett Kennedy Tactile Gripper Development
Activity: Develop tactile sensing. Incorporate it into an end effector to be used on Robosimian. Experimental study about tactile telepresence for remote operation in space ann robotics applications at JPL. The joint research activity between JPL-NASA and SSSA will address modelling and physical integration of tactile sensing technologies such as Fiber Bragg Gratings encapsulated in soft-materials, and the application of novel bioinspired information compression techniques such as neuromorphic encoding and event-based signalling. This will allow to achieve, at the same time, high informativity as well as real-time communication, processing and display of tactile data. We will incorporate this tactile sensor into an end effector to enhance the operation and capabilities of Robosimian.
Bowkett, Joseph California Institute of Technology JVSRP Brandon Rothrock Learning post-conditions for manipulation tasks
Activity: The student will assist in all or a subset of the following areas, depending on skillset and interest: - Conceptual development: design and implementation of statistical models for characterizing grasp-related processes. - Software development: rewriting research code into high-performance implementations. - Experimental design and realization: Generating training data. Drawing experimental protocols. Integration with robot hardware including a Kuka iiwa with three-finger robotiq gripper, and Robosimian. Supervising robot experiments. - Publication: summarizing our results in scientific publications.
Burnett, Ethan University of Colorado Boulder JPLSIP Aaron Schutte Modeling and Simulation of Planetary Space Platforms
Activity: This project involves physics based modeling, simulation, and visualization of space vehicles using JPL's DARTS Lab software. One of the main tasks includes modeling and simulation development for Aerocapture GN&C performance studies. Other project opportunities include development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, developing terrain environment models, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc.
Cameron, Jessica California State Polytechnic University Pomona JPLYIP Paulo Younse In-orbit Capture and Containment Design for Mars Sample Return
Activity: The project will consist of architecting systems and designing mechanical devices using CAD software on the computer, ordering and assembling parts for prototyping on a workbench, performing modeling and simulation, testing techniques in the lab, and reporting on performance and recommendations for future development.
Candela Garza, Alberto Carnegie Mellon University JVSRP Gail Woodward Automated Mapping and Planning to Improve Assessment of Coral Reef Health (SURP)
Activity: The student will work to formalize information-theoretic principles of robotic exploration based on measurement models of reflectance spectroscopy observations from remote and in-situ data.
Cao, Cynthia University of California Berkeley NSTRF Cornelia Altenbuchner Modeling and Simulation of Planetary Space Platforms
Activity: Multiple projects on physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of robotic systems, space vehicles and planetary environments are available at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, developing terrain environment models for the moon, Mars, and space environments, 3D graphics visualization, CAD models, additive manufacturing process modeling, etc.
Cassar, Harrison University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) JPLSIP Steven Myint Simulation for Mars 2020 rover operations
Activity: This task will extend and test the capabilities of the SSim framework. Example areas this may cover are tools to allow seeding of simulation state based on downlink, coverage-guided fuzzing of the simulation and flight software, simulation of sensors and other hardware that interact with flight software, creation of automated tools that make use of SSim, extensions to the web service that serves SSim to its clients, and development of the web-based viewer.
Cauligi, Abhishek Stanford University NSTRF Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Next Generation Robots and AI for Exploring Space and Earth
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the robotic mobility group in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Chase, Timothy Suny at Buffalo JPLSIP Steven Myint Simulation for Mars 2020 rover operations
Activity: sensors and other hardware that interact with flight software, creation of automated tools that make use of SSim, and extensions to the web service that serves SSim to its clients.
Chavez, Fernando California Polytechnic State University San Louis Obispo HR Aliakbar Aghamohammadi 3D Modeling/Prototype Design and Implementation for Hybrid Aerial Mobility Vehicles
Activity: The project involves the development of 3D models of parts for the creation of prototypes of hybrid aerial ground vehicles that have been and will be used in the DARPA Subterranean challenge. The project ranges from prototype design to actual field testing of these vehicles, culminating in the participation of a circuit of the DARPA Subterranean Challenge as part of JPL’s Team CoSTAR.
Chen, Zhanlin Yale University JPLSIP Shreyansh Daftry MAARS: Machine learning-based Analytics for Automated Rover Systems: ML algorithm implementation and testing
Activity: The project assigned to the intern student is to implement and test ML-based onboard vision-based perception algorithms for future Mars rovers.
Chiu, Chi Yeung California State Polytechnic University Pomona JPLYIP Paulo Younse In-orbit Capture Mechanism Design for Mars Sample Return
Activity: The project will consist of architecting systems and designing mechanical devices using CAD software on the computer, ordering and assembling parts for prototyping on a workbench, performing modeling and simulation, testing techniques in the lab, and reporting on performance and recommendations for future development.
Choi, Hyungho Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology JVSRP Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Next Generation Robots and AI for Exploring Space and Earth
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the robotic mobility group in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Clemente, Maurizio Politecnico di Torino JVSRP Marco Quadrelli Modeling and Simulation of Planetary Space Platforms
Activity: The project involves physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of space vehicles using the JPL's DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics and control algorithms used in these real-time simulations.
Cobb, Darby University of Oklahoma JPLSIP Abhinandan Jain Modeling and Simulation of Planetary Space Platforms
Activity: Multiple projects on physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of robotic systems, space vehicles and planetary environments are available at the DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, developing terrain environment models for the moon and Mars environments, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics algorithms used in these real-time simulations and applications to large-scale bio-molecular simulations.
Comer, Daniel Johns Hopkins University JPLSIP Paulo Younse In-orbit Capture and Containment Design for Mars Sample Return
Activity: The project will consist of architecting systems and designing mechanical devices using CAD software on the computer, ordering and assembling parts for prototyping on a workbench, performing modeling and simulation, testing techniques in the lab, and reporting on performance and recommendations for future development.
Culbertson, Preson Stanford University NSTRF Saptarshi Bandyopadhyay Technology Development for In-Space Assembly Applications
Activity: The objective of this effort is to mathematically state the assembly sequencing problem for ISA, which captures all the constraints and complexities of real-world situations, and develop efficient mathematical techniques to solve this problem. We propose to pose the assembly sequencing problem for ISA as a mixed-integer linear program (MILP) using a number of novel mathematical techniques, to take advantage of fast MILP solvers. We propose to build on our prior work from summer 2018.
D'urso, Giovanni University of Technology Sydney JVSRP Gareth Meirion-Griffith Design optimization, simulation and field evaluation for mobile robot mobility systems operating on analogue Ocean World terrain
Activity: To evaluate the efficacy of actively articulated suspension compared with the rocker-bogie mobility system the candidate will assist in running mobility field trials using both types mobility systems. Specifically, the candidate will be responsible for experiment design, mobility control software maintenance, and analyzing data collected from the experiments Additionally, using data collected from field trials at Ocean World analogue sites we wish to perform a design optimization for a mobility system that is both energy efficient and capable of traversing unstructured terrain. The candidate will be tasked with developing a simulation software tool to test design iterations of this new mobility system. The candidate will contribute to the design optimization study, helping formulate a kinematic structure, actuator selection and control regime for the new mobility system.
Daddi, Guglielmo Politecnico di Torino JVSRP Gareth Meirion-Griffith Mars Polar Plasma Drill
Activity: The student will work with the PI and an electrical engineer to implement a testbed approach, followed by prototyping and testing inside a cold vacuum chamber.
Dhaouadi, Wassim Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich JVSRP Marco Quadrelli Modeling, Simulation, and Control of Planetary Vehicles
Activity: The project involves physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of space vehicles using the JPL's DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics and control algorithms used in these real-time simulations.
Dimopoulos, Alexander University of California San Diego SURF Benjamin Morrell Multi-Sensor Perception for Underground Exploration
Activity: This project will look at developing mult-sensor perception frameworks for localization, mapping and object detection in underground environments. This will include testing and analysis of different sensors in dark and obscured environments, development of algorithms to process sensor data, and testing/developing algorithms to combine multiple sensing modalities.
Domnik, Matthias Fachhochschule Dortmund JVSRP Roland Brockers 3D Perception for Aerial Terrain Reconstruction
Activity: The goal of this project is to develop and implement a method to produce highly accurate online terrain maps to enable collision free safe landing in Earth and Mars like environments. The method will be based on 3D point cloud measurements acquired by a monocular vision system onboard a UAS, deploying a structure-from-motion approach for 3D reconstruction. Each point cloud incorporates the pose of the vehicle at acquisition time and constraints on measurement accuracies that have to be incorporated into the common map. The project requires good coding skills (e.g. Matlab or C/C++), and knowledge in Computer Vision methods for 3D reconstruction.
Ebadi, Kamak Santa Clara University JPLYIP Amir Rahmani Technologies for Spacecraft Swarm Autonomy
Activity: The student will work closely with a team of JPL engineers and technologists to develop algorithms and software in the general areas of swarm guidance, navigation, and control. This includes but not limited to distributed relative navigation, orbit determination and relative station keeping, swarm motion planning, and similar. Tasks might include, designing algorithms, software architecture and implementation of algorithms, running simulation and experiments, or analysis of results in support of verification and validation.
Fan, David Georgia Institute of Technology JPLYIP Benjamin Morrell Next Generation Autonomous Robots for Exploring Space and Earth - Morrell
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. The intern has to contribute to all three thrusts mentioned in the “background section”. The level of focus on any of these three thrusts will depend on the skill-set of the intern as well as the project needs. The main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning, machine learning, and field testing.
Ferrini, Lorenzo University of Pisa JVSRP Brett Kennedy Tactile Gripper Development
Activity: Develop tactile sensing. Incorporate it into an end effector to be used on Robosimian. Experimental study about tactile telepresence for remote operation in space ann robotics applications at JPL. The joint research activity between JPL-NASA and SSSA will address modelling and physical integration of tactile sensing technologies such as Fiber Bragg Gratings encapsulated in soft-materials, and the application of novel bioinspired information compression techniques such as neuromorphic encoding and event-based signalling. This will allow to achieve, at the same time, high informativity as well as real-time communication, processing and display of tactile data. We will incorporate this tactile sensor into an end effector to enhance the operation and capabilities of Robosimian.
Fjelheim, Markus Universitetet i Stavanger JVSRP Masahiro Ono MAARS - web-based interface
Activity: To implement and test a web-based interface that visualizes the live data stream from the Athena test rover and allows user to perform content-based serach on the data. Additional potential work on the development of ML-based algorithm for data interpretation
Funabiki, Nobuhiro The University of Tokyo JVSRP Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Robotic Autonomy and Mobility Concept Design
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the robotic mobility group in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Gabardi, Kaitlyn University of Wisconsin - Madison JPLSIP Julie Townsend M2020 Robotics V&V testbed support
Activity: Student will assist in Validation and Verification activities on M2020 supporting QMDT and other Testing activities such as docking station, and robotics element check out and data analysis
Galassi, Andrew Georgia Institute of Technology HR Eric Kulczycki Mechanical Design for Mars Sample Return Lander Robotic Arm
Activity: Conduct concept development, analysis, and CAD design for the Sample Transfer Arm Robotic System and related devices.
Gatto, Joseph Columbia University School General Studie JPLSIP Yumi Iwashita I2F project – adaptive virtual sensing using on-board learning
Activity: The objective of this project is to implement optimization and machine learning algorithms on Qualcomm Snapdragon boards, to process data from RGB and IR sensors and choose optimal combinations of the RGB and IR as a virtual sensor, based on illumination, sun position, and terrain temperature and class of terrain, in order to maximize accuracy of terrain classification – for example in assessing the degree of fire hazard of vegetation/terrain in covered area, or in assessing terrain traversability by vehicles or people.
Ginting, Muhammad Fadhil ETH Zurich JVSRP Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Next Generation Robots and AI for Exploring Space and Earth
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the robotic mobility group in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Glassner, Samantha Northeastern University JPLYIP Spencer Backus System development for In-Space Assembly
Activity: A current testbed and interface prototypes incorporating a mobile manipulator and precision kinematic joints have been developed to evaluate strategies for in-space assembly and repair of satellites. Students are needed to support the testbed and continue development and testing of the robotic system, precision joints, and other systems integral to the modular serviceable satellite concept.
Glick, Paul University of California San Diego NSTRF Donald Ruffatto Extending Controllable Adhesive Technologies to Irregular Surfaces with Soft Robotic Actuation
Activity: The student will work to integrate current gecko-like adhesives developed at JPL with the growing field of soft robotics while addressing the challenges of utilizing soft robotic mechanisms in space. This work will be performed in collaboration with JPL as a part of a NASA Space Technology Research Fellowship. A detailed literature review will first be performed covering the areas of both gecko-like adhesives and soft robotic gripper mechanisms. Methods will be developed for the fabrication process of infusing gecko-like adhesives directly with soft robotic actuations and how to effectively design said soft actuators to take full advantage of the adhesive material. Test will be conducted on a range of target materials and surface geometries to evaluate the performance improvement realizable with this approach. In addition, the fluid actuation mechanism and space grade polymers required to operate a soft robotics in LEO will be developed/identified. Environmental testing will be performed in a vacuum chamber and at low temperature to evaluate functionality. This work will be cataloged in the student’s final PhD thesis.
Gozoev, Akhsarbek University of Oslo JVSRP Yumi Iwashita Machine learning for ground traversability analysis from aerial images
Activity: The project will focus on developing deep learning-based segmentation and path planning.
Grace, Joshua California Polytechnic State University JPLYIP Steven Myint Simulation for Mars 2020 rover operations
Activity: This task will extend and test the capabilities of the SSIm framework. Areas this will cover are simulation of sensors and other hardware that interact with flight software, creation of automated tools that make use of SSim, and extensions to the web service that serves SSim to its clients.
Hall, Hunter University of California Berkeley SURF Adrian Stoica Prototyping and testing balloon payloads and cubesat subsystems
Activity: We will use existing High Altitude Balloon (HAB) to test 1) new flight technologies/tools, 2) new flight systems and science instrument payloads for HABs, ) and 3) subsystems for lunar cubesats.
Hasrouty, Jean Claude California State University - Northridge MSP Eric Kulczycki Mars Sample Transfer Testbed Robotic Arm Operations Testing and Software
Activity: Student will assist in the design, development, and testing of robotic arm control and workspace analysis software for sample retrieval tools and sample cache interface features as part of the development of a Mars Sample Transfer Test-bed development. Student will help to develop and test end-to-end systems and collect data to aid in the end-to-end autonomous sample transfer chain
Heiman, Tyler University of Nebraska - Lincoln Space Grant Ryan McCormick COLDArm Development
Activity: The project will work towards the development of a lunar robotic manipulator, including design and testing
Iacoponi, Saverio Sant'Anna school of advanced studies JVSRP Kalind Carpenter Underwater mobility and Anchoring
Activity: We will produce first of its kind screw propulsion robot. The counter rotating units act as wheels, tracks, gripping mechanisms, and propelling units under water. These enable a robot to get to a plume and follow the streamline to its source and proceed into the open water. At the ice water interface buoyant volatiles, chemicals and potential biofilms will concentrate. These areas are of high scientific interest. Accessing them requires underwater mobility, variable buoyancy, ice water interface mobility and potentially anchoring. This collaboration will focus on the mobility modalities, screw thread design and variable buoyancy mechanism. Stretch goals will be anchoring technologies and water bottom interface mobility, especially searching for and anchoring to hydrothermal vents, potential nurseries of life.
Ilhardt, Peter Penn State University JPLYIP Renaud Detry Object Localization for Mars Sample Return tube pickup
Activity: The student will conduct research, development and testing of vision-guided behaviors for sample handling on Mars. The student will assist in all or a subset of the following areas: Conceptual development: design and implementation of statistical models for characterizing grasp-related processes. Software development: rewriting research code into high-performance implementations. - Experimental design and realization: Generating training data. Drawing experimental protocols. Integration with robot hardware. Supervising robot experiments.
Ishigo, Alyssa University of Southern California JPLYIP Paulo Younse In-orbit Capture and Containment Design for Mars Sample Return
Activity: The project will consist of architecting systems and designing mechanical devices using CAD software on the computer, ordering and assembling parts for prototyping on a workbench, performing modeling and simulation, testing techniques in the lab, and reporting on performance and recommendations for future development.
Johnson, Ryan University of California Santa Cruz JPLYIP-SUM Philip Twu Mars 2020 Rover Navigation (RNAV) V&V
Activity: The project is focused on the verification and validation (V&V) of the rover navigation system through analysis, simulation, and Mars Yard field testing. Tasks include but are not limited to: 1) Familiarization with RNAV Concept of Operation, RNAV requirements, and V&V plan 2) Model certification of simulation environment used to verify statistical performance requirements 3) Aiding in the planning and execution of Mars Yard rover tests 4) Analyzing results and verifying both functional and performance requirements are met 5) Documenting and presenting results
Katsumata, Haruhi Keio University JVSRP Masahiro Ono MAARS: Machine learning-based Analytics for Automated Rover Systems – Energy Optimal Autonav
Activity: The objectives of this task are to enhance the scientific and engineering value of future Mars rovers through the development, HPSC deployment, verification, and validation of the Energy Optima Autonav capability: a capability to maximize the driving distance of a solar-powered rover by analyzing the location-dependent energy consumption and generation from images and by choosing the path and schedule to maximize the energy balance. The candidate is also supposed to support the algorithm deployment on the Athena Rover.
Kaufmann, Marcel Polytechnique Montreal JVSRP Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Next Generation Robots and AI for Exploring Space and Earth
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the robotic mobility group in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Khoo, Noris University of Southern California JPLYIP Yumi Iwashita I2F project – adaptive virtual sensing using on-board learning
Activity: The objective of this project is to implement optimization and machine learning algorithms on Qualcomm Snapdragon boards, to process data from RGB and IR sensors and choose optimal combinations of the RGB and IR as a virtual sensor, based on illumination, sun position, and terrain temperature and class of terrain, in order to maximize accuracy of terrain classification – for example in assessing the degree of fire hazard of vegetation/terrain in covered area, or in assessing terrain traversability by vehicles or people.
Kikuchi, Yuiko Keio University JVSRP Masahiro Ono MAARS: Machine learning-based Analytics for Automated Rover Systems – Energy Optimal Autonav
Activity: The objectives of this task are to enhance the scientific and engineering value of future Mars rovers through the development, HPSC deployment, verification, and validation of the Energy Optima Autonav capability: a capability to maximize the driving distance of a solar-powered rover by analyzing the location-dependent energy consumption and generation from images and by choosing the path and schedule to maximize the energy balance. The candidate is also supposed to support the algorithm deployment on the Athena Rover.
Koehler, Corey University of California Berkeley JPLSIP Eric Contreras Robotic Testbed Development
Activity: Robotic lab testbed and infrastructure development – will involve testbed assembly and debugging, rapid prototyping design leading to the manufacturing of plastic components for assembly of robotic mechanisms, and laboratory ground support equipment development
Krol, Kyle Cornell University JPLYIP Steven Myint Fuzzing Mars 2020 flight software
Activity: This task will apply coverage-guided fuzz testing techniques to the Mars 2020 flight software (including mobility, sample caching, and opportunistic sequence execution planner). The task will use SSim, a Linux-based flight-software-in-the-loop simulation tool, to allow adapting modern fuzzing frameworks to this purpose. The goal would be to develop tools to efficiently find inadequacies and bugs in the flight software and the simulation tool itself.
Kugel, Matthias University of Stuttgart JVSRP Brett Kennedy Enceladus In-situ Surface Sampler System Development
Activity: The internship task will involve the candidate performing mechanical design, assembly, and laboratory testing of prototype sampling systems for application to Enceladus surfaces. This includes design of mechanisms using Solidworks CAD, managing the fabrication of machined parts, and assembly of hardware. Additionally, executing test programs to evaluate sampling systems will be performed and anlysis/modeling of unique aspects of the system may also be undertaken.
Kusch, Filippo ETH Zurich JVSRP Marco Quadrelli Simulation and Testing of Additive Manufacturing Processes for Space Applications
Activity: This task involves the study of residual stresses of additively manufactured components, leveraging existing 3D manufacturing capabilities in combination with predictive computational tools, addressing stress-relief strategies, as well as physics-based numerical models. The ultimate goal is to accurately predict the lifecycle and performance of metallic parts based on Additive Manufacturing processes.
Lamarre, Olivier University of Toronto JPLGF Masahiro Ono MAARS: Machine learning-based Analytics for Automated Rover Systems - RAND (resource-aware non-stop driving)
Activity: The objectives of this task are to enhance the scientific and engineering value of future Mars rovers through the development, HPSC deployment, verification, and validation of the Energy Optima Autonav capability: a capability to maximize the driving distance of a solar-powered rover by analyzing the location-dependent energy consumption and generation from images and by choosing the path and schedule to maximize the energy balance. The candidate will work with the mentors to develop an optimal route planning algorithm with estimated driving energy prediction both experimentally and theoretically.
Leake, Carl Texas A&M University NSTRF Aaron Schutte Modeling and Simulation of Planetary Space Platforms
Activity: This project involves physics based modeling, simulation, and visualization of space vehicles using JPL's DARTS Lab software. One of the main tasks includes development of flexible multibody dynamics simulation software using finite element models. Other project opportunities include development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, developing terrain environment models, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc.
Lei, Xianmei California State Polytechnic University Pomona HR Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Object Detection in DARPA Subterranean Challenge(SubT)
Activity: DARPA Subterranean Challenge(SubT) is a competition aiming to advance the autonomy technologies to rescue and explore in artificial and natural underground environments. To score in the competition, a group of robots are deployed to search for designated artifacts placed in the courses. Object detection task is to develop real-time artifact detectors to integrate on robots.
Leopold, Henry University of Waterloo JVSRP Sung Kim Next Generation Robots and AI for Exploring Space and Earth
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the project in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Li, Monica University of California Berkeley NSTRF Christopher Yahnker Sensitive End Effector Design for Frangible Surfaces in Extreme Underwater Environments
Activity: Researching and characterizing methods to develop sensitive end effector design for spiny attachment onto frangible substrates in the extreme underwater environment.
Locsin, Liberty Pasadena City College SIRI-Spring Adrian Stoica The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Future Space Missions
Activity: Literature review, analysis of various technologies, and preparation of a report that examines the current state of AI, provides a technology roadmap, and examines the implications of AI in future space missions.
Loi, Matteo Whittier College HR Adriana Wall Business Administration
Activity:
Long, Madelynne Carnegie Mellon University HR
Activity:
Luebbers, Matthew University of Colorado Boulder JPLSIP Kristopher Wehage Cloud-based tools for robotics operations
Activity: The Robotics Interfaces and Visualization group seeks a Computer Science summer intern with experience in setting up and deploying web and cloud-based services. The intern will deploy robotics operations simulation and reporting tools to web and cloud-based platforms, and will help to architect a framework for deploying and managing batch simulation jobs. The new cloud-based utility will become part of the RSVP (Rover Sequencing and Visualization Program) suite of tools.
Maggiolino, Gerald University of California San Diego JPLSIP Renaud Detry Object Localization for Mars Sample Return tube pickup
Activity: The student will conduct research, development and testing of vision-guided behaviors for sample handling on Mars. The student will assist in all or a subset of the following areast: Conceptual development: design and implementation of statistical models for characterizing grasp-related processes. Software development: rewriting research code into high-performance implementations. - Experimental design and realization: Generating training data. Drawing experimental protocols. Integration with robot hardware. Supervising robot experiments.
Marchionne, Caterina  
Activity:
Mazouz, Rayan Delft University of Technology JVSRP Marco Quadrelli Modeling, Simulation, and Control of Planetary Vehicles
Activity: The project involves physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of space vehicles using the JPL's DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics and control algorithms used in these real-time simulations.
McGann, Daniel Northeastern University JPLSIP Steven Myint Simulation for Mars 2020 rover operations
Activity: This task will extend and test the capabilities of the SSim framework. Example areas this may cover are tools to allow seeding of simulation state based on downlink, coverage-guided fuzzing of the simulation and flight software, simulation of sensors and other hardware that interact with flight software, creation of automated tools that make use of SSim, extensions to the web service that serves SSim to its clients, and development of the web-based viewer.
McWillie, Sean University of Texas Austin JPLYIP Abhinandan Jain Modeling and Simulation of Planetary Space Platforms
Activity: Multiple projects on physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of robotic systems, space vehicles and planetary environments are available at the DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, developing terrain environment models for the moon and Mars environments, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics algorithms used in these real-time simulations and applications to large-scale bio-molecular simulations.
Mei, Carolyn Massachusetts Institute of technology JPLSIP Justin Huang Development and deployment of tools for MSL rover operations
Activity: This task will focus on development of robust, automated procedures for testing, packaging, and deploying software tools for MSL rover planners. These tools include: automated arm planning and sequencing, verification of lighting conditions for camera operation, data transformation and visualization, and more. This task also involves working with RPs to understand their needs for the software tools and extending the tools' functionality as needed.
Michnovicz, Elena Georgia Institute of Technology
Activity:
Miller, Alexander Massachusetts Institute of technology JPLSIP Gerik Kubiak Mars Science Helicopter System - Internship
Activity: FPrime software developer for work related to MSH Reasearch & Technolody Development task. Software, firmware, drone experience needed. Responsibilities: - FPrime C/C++ software development - Field testing of UAS - Payload integration, hardware integration, firmware integration, and testing - Simulation of UAS , autonomy testing
Miller, Eric University of Georgia JPLYIP Steven Myint Simulation for Mars 2020 rover operations
Activity: This task will extend and test the capabilities of the SSIm framework. Areas this will cover are simulation of sensors and other hardware that interact with flight software, creation of automated tools that make use of SSim, and extensions to the web service that serves SSim to its clients.
Mock, Stephen Georgia Institute of Technology HR Paulo Younse In-orbit Capture Mechanism Design for Mars Sample Return
Activity: Design, order and assemble a testbed to simulate misalignment of robotic arm in 6DoF. Testbed will be used to understand the behavior of different CCRS (Capture, Containment, and Return System) robotic arm end effectors and their misalignment strategies. Also designing tools to access Mars samples when the sample tubes and EEV (Earth Entry Vehicle) are returned to Earth
Morra, Daniele Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna JVSRP Brett Kennedy Tactile Gripper Development
Activity: Develop tactile sensing. Incorporate it into an end effector to be used on Robosimian. Experimental study about tactile telepresence for remote operation in space ann robotics applications at JPL. The joint research activity between JPL-NASA and SSSA will address modelling and physical integration of tactile sensing technologies such as Fiber Bragg Gratings encapsulated in soft-materials, and the application of novel bioinspired information compression techniques such as neuromorphic encoding and event-based signalling. This will allow to achieve, at the same time, high informativity as well as real-time communication, processing and display of tactile data. We will incorporate this tactile sensor into an end effector to enhance the operation and capabilities of Robosimian.
Morris, Justin Carnegie Mellon University JPLSIP Eric Kulczycki Mars Sample Transfer Testbed Robotic Arm Operations Testing and Software
Activity: Student will assist in the design, development, and testing of robotic arm control and workspace analysis software for sample retrieval tools and sample cache interface features as part of the development of a Mars Sample Transfer Test-bed development. Student will help to develop and test end-to-end systems and collect data to aid in the end-to-end autonomous sample transfer chain
Newbold, Timothy California State Polytechnic University Pomona JPLYIP Scott Moreland Enceldus In Situ Sampling Environmental Chamber Experimentation
Activity: The internship task will involve the candidate performing mechanical design, assembly and laboratory testing of prototype sampling systems for application to Enceladus surfaces. This includes design of mechanisms using Solidworks CAD, managing the fabrication of machined parts, and assembly of hardware. Additionally, executing test programs to evaluate sampling systems will be performed
Niemoeller, Samantha University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) JPLSIP Junggon Kim ACA Telemetry Visualization in M2020 Surface Operations
Activity: The project is to develop a 3D model for the ACA to visualize the ACA telemetry in multiple ground tools including RSVP (Robt Sequencing and Visualization Program) and ASTTRO (Advanced Science Targeting Toolkit for Robotic Operations) for the Mars 2020 Surface Operations. The ACA is perhaps one of the most complicated subsystems to visualize due to many movable parts including the sample tubes and their dynamic hierarchies in the scene graph. About 200 telemetry channels are expected to be linked to the model directly or indirectly in order to display the current ACA state correctly. An interface layer will also need to be developed in order to integrate the model into the ground tools.
Osmundson, Alan University of Southern California JPLSIP Issa Nesnas A System for Autonomous Approach to Small Bodies
Activity: This project is concerned with brining the advances in robots to deep space navigation, by leveraging advanced algorithms and software used on earth to enhance autonomy for missions to small bodies. Specifically, the project looks at a vision based system for autonomous approach and mapping of a small body. The intern has to contribute to all three thrusts mentioned in the “background section”. The level of focus on any of these three thrusts will depend on the skill-set of the intern as well as the project needs. The main components of system being developed and tested include visual shape reconstruction, visual feature tracking, 3D reconstruction, orbit determination and probability analysis.
Palieri, Matteo Polytechnic University of Bari JVSRP Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Next Generation Robots and AI for Exploring Space and Earth
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. The intern has to contribute to all three thrusts mentioned in the “background section”. The level of focus on any of these three thrusts will depend on the skill-set of the intern as well as the project needs. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the robotic mobility group in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Papais, Sandro McGill University JVSRP Benjamin Hockman Systems Engineering study of an Inter-Planetary CubeSat
Activity: The objective of this project is to design an autonomous inter-planetary CubeSat and perform basic systems engineering to size the various subsystems required for autonomous operations around small bodies (e.g. propulsion, ADCS, and imaging systems). Specifically, this project will support the Topical R&TD task “Autonomous Approach of Small Unknown Bodies” by providing key sizing and performance constraints in order to realize the various mapping and navigation algorithms currently under development.
Paparella, Fabio Politecnico di Milano JVSRP Marco Quadrelli Modeling, Simulation, and Control of Planetary Vehicles
Activity: The project involves physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of space vehicles using the JPL's DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics and control algorithms used in these real-time simulations.
Patel, Harsh Georgia Institute of Technology JPLYIP Abhinandan Jain Modeling and Simulation of Planetary Space Platforms
Activity: Multiple projects on physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of robotic systems, space vehicles and planetary environments are available at the DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, developing terrain environment models for the moon and Mars environments, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics algorithms used in these real-time simulations and applications to large-scale bio-molecular simulations.
Primstad, PÃ¥l University of Oslo JVSRP Marco Quadrelli Improving rover exploration capabilities by learning from humans
Activity: The objective of the project is to Improving rover exploration capabilities by learning from humans. One would start with basic autonomy capabilities including terrain recognition/classification, interpretation, planning - based on optimal route selection, and navigation with obstacle avoidance. Then human input will be received and included, both in interpretation of terrain, and environment in general, as well as heuristics used by human. After learning the rover performance would be increased. Rover will be sending video and audio from the remote location to the user. Modalities for improved operator experience and interfaces for visualization and control - in the context of learning - will be examined.
Pugh, Nigel North Carolina A&T State University MSP-HBCU Changrak Choi Large-scale Multi-Agent Motion Planning via integrated Optimization and ML
Activity: This is a research-oriented project aimed at developing a distributed and real-time motion planning algorithmic framework and software for multi-agent dynamical systems. It involves 1) theoretical algorithmic development and 2) implementation of the developed algorithms, from both optimization and ML perspective. The intern will contribute to either 1) or 2) depending on the skill-set of the intern as well as the project needs.
Quan, Justin University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) JPLYIP Spencer Backus Perching Helicopters
Activity: The selected candidate will be tasked to design and develop gripper and landing gear of the perching gripper using rapid-prototyping tools and to develop and run testbeds to evaluate the gripper's performance in various conditions
Ramtoula, Benjamin Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne JVSRP Benjamin Morrell Next Generation Autonomous Robots for Exploring Space and Earth, JVSRP - Morrell
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. The main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning, machine learning, and field testing.
Rankin, Ian Oregon State University JPLSIP Russell Smith Orpheus: Deep Ocean AUV
Activity: We concluded our second cruise with Orpheus diving Veach Canyon in September 2019 with a long list of items to address. These include: improving the system front end and mission scripting, automating human friendly display of dive data, improving characterization of system dynamics, and adding features to the gazebo based simulator. The student and mentor will work together to identify a subset of tasks within this scope that best suit the student's interests and capabilities.
Rothenberger, Noah ETH Zurich JVSRP Tyler Del Sesto Terrain Characterization for Mars Rover Navigation and Simulation
Activity: Analysis of available Mars terrain data from orbital and local terrain images (from previous/ongoing Mars missions). Synthesis of high-fidelity terrains to aid ground simulation of Mars rover autonomy.
Roy, Hiya The University of Tokyo JVSRP Masahiro Ono MAARS: Machine learning-based Analytics for Automated Rover Systems
Activity: The project assigned to the intern student is to develop, test, and implement on-board scientific data interpretation, summarization, and prioritization algorithm for future Mars rovers, based on latest machine learning technologies.
Samuel, Kai North Carolina A&T State University MSP-HBCU Eric Kulczycki Mechanical Design and Testing for Mars Sample Transfer Test bed
Activity: Student will assist in the design, development, and testing of technology for sample caches as part of the development of a Mars Sample Transfer Test-bed development. Student will help to evaluate prototypes through operations of the MSTT Test-bed for data collection and demonstration of key functionality for the SRL Concept Mission. Student will take part in Mars Yard Testing with Fetch Rover
Scheiber, Martin Universitaet Klagenfurt JVSRP Roland Brockers VIO Initialization in unknown environments
Activity: The goal of this project is to develop and implement a method to initialize an existing vision-based state estimation filter in the three scenarios mentioned above with a special focus on the throw-and-go scenario at the end of the project. The project requires good coding skills (e.g. Matlab or C/C++), and knowledge in State estimation and Computer Vision.
Schoonover, Andrea Arizona State University JPLSIP Jean-Pierre de la Croix A Framework for Multi-Agent Robotics Software Development
Activity: The student will assist in the development and testing of CARACaS software, including performing simulations, analyzing data from on-water testing, and adding new features to the framework. The student will be integrated into a team of JPL engineers to work closely together on a submodule of the system.
Schoppmann, Pascal ETH Zurich JVSRP Roland Brockers Autonomous emergency landing for UAS in unknown 3D terrain
Activity: The goal of this project is to develop and implement a system for emergency landing of UAS in complex 3D terrain. This includes the evaluation of 3D reconstruction methods to produce highly accurate online landing maps to enable collision free safe landing in Earth and Mars like environments; an autonomy system to select appropriate landing sites based on terrain knowledge and emergency constraints; and a motion planning module to execute the landing maneuver. The project involves algorithm development and verification in simulation and implementation and testing on existing JPL rotorcraft UAS. Good coding skills (e.g. Matlab or C/C++) and knowledge in Computer Vision methods for 3D reconstruction are required.
Singh, Mohit Georgia Institute of Technology SURF Jeff Delaune GPS-Inertial Navigation for Mars Science Helicopter Field Tests
Activity: Evaluating MSH navigation performance requires accurate and robust ground truth for position, orientation and velocity estimation. While this is easily solved over short distances with motion capture systems, obtaining full state ground truth over long distances is a general issue in field robotics, and for MSH in particular. The participant is expected to contribute in the design, implementation and testing of a full-state ground truth navigation filter involving 2 GPS and inertial sensors. Through this, the participant will also be involved in the testing and potentially the design of MSH vision-based navigation framework. The participant will join a team of multiple employees, postdocs and interns in the design, implementation and testing of a novel vision-based navigation algorithm tailored for robust performance in Mars-like conditions.
Smatsi, Natalia ETH Zurich JVSRP Cornelia Altenbuchner Modeling and Simulation of Planetary Space Platforms
Activity: Multiple projects on physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of robotic systems, space vehicles and planetary environments are available at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, developing terrain environment models for the moon, Mars, and space environments, 3D graphics visualization, CAD models, additive manufacturing process modeling, etc.
Stephens, Ravi University of Sydney JVSRP Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Next Generation Robots and AI for Exploring Space and Earth
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. The intern has to contribute to all three thrusts mentioned in the “background section”. The level of focus on any of these three thrusts will depend on the skill-set of the intern as well as the project needs. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the robotic mobility group in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Stevlingson, Claire University of Southern California JPLYIP Eric Kulczycki Hermetic Seal Mechanical Support
Activity: Student will assist in seal activation, leak checking, ground support hardware design, assembly of hermetic seals, inventory, and various misc. activities in support of the development and qualification of the Hermetic Seal Assemblies for the Mars 2020 Rover mission
Strahle, Jackson University of Southern California HR
Activity: Design reference architecture for CCRS Capture and Orient Module (COM). Specifically, the Transfer Mechanism which is responsible for manipulating the Orbiting Sample (OS) in orbit around Mars.
Swan, Robert University of Southern California JPLYIP Deegan Atha Deep Learning for Terrain Classification
Activity: This work entails developing and implementing deep learning algorithms for terrain classification that will be used onboard research rovers and deployed for use in ground systems for MSL and M2020. The work will utilize the Deeplabv3+ algorithm for semantic segmentation.
Tadayon, Manie University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) JPLYIP Yumi Iwashita Chevron tight rock project
Activity: The project will focus on developing deep learning-based methods to predict oil/gas production. More specifically, the student will work on the following 2 tasks: 1. ML predictor of early-period (3-6 months) performance A predictive forecast of production performance in early-period with identification of most informative parameter influencing production profile. Distribution of plausibility of observable UC pattern occurrences during this period may include prediction of survival time of the anomaly event preferably including right censoring (pattern non-occurrence). 2. ML operational noise filter to minimize effects of noise on production data Algorithmic classifier that utilizes operational event labelling and filters operational event noise and boosts signal-noise ratio in early-period daily production data. Every 2 weeks JPL and Chevron has a regular meeting and the student is expected to join the meeting
Takahashi, Ryohei The University of Tokyo JVSRP Masahiro Ono Research on Logistics of Multi-vehicle Mars Exploration using MTTT
Activity: The objectives of this task are to perform basic researches on 1) enhancing the capabilities of MTTT by integrating ground-based and orbiter-based terrain classification and 2) system engineering study on the logistics of future unmanned and manned Mars exploration using a heterogeneous team of robots
Tarng, Alexander Carnegie Mellon University JPLSIP Steven Myint Simulation for Mars 2020 rover operations
Activity: This task will extend and test the capabilities of the SSim framework. Example areas this may cover are tools to allow seeding of simulation state based on downlink, coverage-guided fuzzing of the simulation and flight software, simulation of sensors and other hardware that interact with flight software, creation of automated tools that make use of SSim, extensions to the web service that serves SSim to its clients, and development of the web-based viewer.
Tighe, Julianne Duke University MSP-S Eric Kulczycki Mechanical Design and Testing for Mars Sample Transfer Test bed
Activity: Student will assist in the design, development, and testing of technology for sample caches as part of the development of a Mars Sample Transfer Test-bed development. Student will help to evaluate prototypes through operations of the MSTT Test-bed for data collection and demonstration of key functionality for the SRL Concept Mission. Student will take part in Mars Yard Testing with Fetch Rover
Ting, Gabriel Vanderbilt University JPLYIP-SUM Steven Myint Simulation for Mars 2020 rover operations
Activity: This task will extend and test the capabilities of the SSIm framework. Example areas this may cover are tools to allow seeding of simulation state based on downlink, coverage-guided fuzzing of the simulation and flight software, simulation of sensors and other hardware that interact with flight software, creation of automated tools that make use of SSim, extensions to the web service that serves SSim to its clients, and development of the web-based viewer.
Van der Merwe, Mark University of Utah JPLSIP Renaud Detry Object Localization for Mars Sample Return tube pickup
Activity: The student will conduct research, development and testing of vision-guided behaviors for sample handling on Mars. The student will assist in all or a subset of the following areas, depending on skillset and interest: - Conceptual development: design and implementation of statistical models for characterizing grasp-related processes. - Software development: rewriting research code into high-performance implementations. - Experimental design and realization: Generating training data. Drawing experimental protocols. Integration with robot hardware. Supervising robot experiments.
Vekhter, Joshua University of Texas Austin JPLSIP Abhinandan Jain Modeling and Simulation of Planetary Space Platforms
Activity: Multiple projects on physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of robotic systems, space vehicles and planetary environments are available at the DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, developing terrain environment models for the moon and Mars environments, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics algorithms used in these real-time simulations and applications to large-scale bio-molecular simulations.
Venkatraman, Siddarth Manipal Institute of Technology JPLYIP-SUM Shreyansh Daftry Imitation Learning based Path Planning for future Mars Rovers
Activity: In this work, we will be exploring methods to use imitation learning based frameworks to improve the efficiency of current AutoNav algorithms for Mars rovers. The student will assist in all or a subset of the following areas, depending on skillset and interest: - Conceptual development: design and implementation of imitation learning algorithms for path planning of Mars rovers. - Software development: rewriting research code into high-performance implementations. - Experimental design and realization: Generating training data. Integration with robot hardware. Supervising robot experiments.
Vertovec, Nikolaus ETH Zurich JPLYIP Steven Myint Simulation for Mars 2020 rover operations
Activity: This task will extend and test the capabilities of the SSIm framework. Areas this will cover are simulation of sensors and other hardware that interact with flight software, creation of automated tools that make use of SSim, and extensions to the web service that serves SSim to its clients.
Villalobos, Christopher California State Polytechnic University Pomona JPLYIP Spencer Backus In-Space Assembly System Development
Activity: A current testbed and interface prototypes incorporating a mobile manipulator and precision kinematic joints have been developed to evaluate strategies for in-space assembly and repair of satellites. Students are needed to support the testbed and continue development and testing of the robotic system, precision joints, and other systems integral to the modular serviceable satellite concept.
Viotto, Auston University of Nebraska - Lincoln JPLSIP Ryan McCormick COLDArm Development
Activity: The project will work towards the development of a lunar robotic manipulator, including design and testing.
Wang, Haoda University of Southern California JPLYIP Steven Myint Simulation for Mars 2020 rover operations
Activity: This task will extend and test the capabilities of the SSIm framework. Example areas this may cover are tools to allow seeding of simulation state based on downlink, coverage-guided fuzzing of the simulation and flight software, simulation of sensors and other hardware that interact with flight software, creation of automated tools that make use of SSim, extensions to the web service that serves SSim to its clients, and development of the web-based viewer.
Wang, Yunting California State Polytechnic University Pomona JVSRP Aliakbar Aghamohammadi Next Generation Robots and AI for Exploring Space and Earth
Activity: This project is concerned with the problem of robot autonomy. The intern has to contribute to all three thrusts mentioned in the “background section”. The level of focus on any of these three thrusts will depend on the skill-set of the intern as well as the project needs. On the algorithms side, the main components of robot autonomy involve robot localization, environment mapping, motion planning under uncertainty, and machine learning. On the story telling side, the intern will support the robotic mobility group in creating high-quality graphics that depict complex robotic mobility concepts and concept space vehicles. The intern further will support the team on preparing high-quality technical art embedded in technical presentations, documents, and videos.
Webb, Kevin Georgia Institute of Technology JPLSIP Abhinandan Jain Modeling and Simulation of Planetary Space Platforms
Activity: Multiple projects on physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of robotic systems, space vehicles and planetary environments are available at the DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, developing terrain environment models for the moon and Mars environments, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics algorithms used in these real-time simulations and applications to large-scale bio-molecular simulations.
Yang, Yilin University of Michigan - Ann Arbor JPLSIP Steven Myint Simulation for Mars 2020 rover operations
Activity: This task will extend and test the capabilities of the SSim framework. Example areas this may cover are tools to allow seeding of simulation state based on downlink, coverage-guided fuzzing of the simulation and flight software, simulation of sensors and other hardware that interact with flight software, creation of automated tools that make use of SSim, extensions to the web service that serves SSim to its clients, and development of the web-based viewer.
Zanutto, Nicolas Politecnico di Milano JVSRP Marco Quadrelli Modeling, Simulation, and Control of Planetary Vehicles
Activity: The project involves physics based modeling, simulation and visualization of space vehicles using the JPL's DARTS Lab at JPL. The projects range from participating in the development of models for new vehicles, conducting studies using these simulations, 3D graphics visualization, user interface development etc. There are also opportunities in the development and application of the basic multibody dynamics and control algorithms used in these real-time simulations