Proposing new path-planning metrics for operating rovers on Mars

Abstract

Abstract The on-ground operation of Mars rovers is a complex task that requires comprehensive planning in which path planning plays a fundamental role. The selection of paths has to be carefully chosen considering the scientific objectives, terrain, energy, and safety. In this regard, operators are assisted by path-planning algorithms that generate candidate paths based on cost functions. Distance traveled has always been considered one of the primary criteria when comparing paths. Other metrics such as the run-time to generate the solution or the number of expanded nodes are common measures considered in the literature. However, we want to analyze if those metrics provide useful information in challenging and partially known terrain. In this paper, we will review those metrics using two-path planning algorithms on real Mars maps. Based on our experience operating Mars rovers, we propose new metrics for assessing paths in real-world applications.