New Software Stops Mars Rover Confusion

MattSparkes writes "The Mars rover Spirit used to get quite confused when it came upon a rock. Because it could only plan routes of a metre or two it couldn't understand how to navigate around large objects, and frequently used to rock back and forth for hours trying to figure it out. NASA have written new software called D* for the rover Opportunity, which should allow it to autonomously plan routes up to 50 metres long. The new software still won't be able to avoid sand-traps, though."

Comments

The new software

[Timesprout]

actually controls the rail gun which will be used to 'eliminate' obstacles

metres

[lucabrasi999]

You know, NASA sometimes has a hard time figuring out the difference between Meters and Miles. Now, you are asking them to figure out the difference between Metres and Meters.

Re:Based on A*?

[Xerotope]

P.S. The asterisk is because the algorithm is on steroids.

Re:My orcs could find their way around rocks...

[Volante3192]

> Look L

To your left you see a sharp precipice going nearly straight down. Sticking out of the cliff wall are thorny bushes.

> Look R

To your right you see an overgrown thicket, filled with poison ivy, snakes and thorny bushes. The remains of a trail appear to pass through the thicket.

> Climb boulder

You grab hold of the boulder and attempt to pull yourself up, but lacking a firm grip, you slip and hit the ground with your butt.

Re:Been golfing for years...

[tbone1]

Try putting down your beer first. It did wonders for my driving.

And remember, kids, don't drink and drive. Use a seven iron.