AUTONOMOUS

The Autonomous Subteam is responsible for enabling Gentoo to navigate safely and efficiently through Antarctica’s challenging terrain. By leveraging advanced algorithms, sensor data, and real-time decision-making systems, this team develops the intelligence behind the rover’s autonomous operations. In addition to navigation, the subteam ensures continuous monitoring of system components and early detection of failures to maintain overall reliability. The subteam works closely together with the other subteams.

Key Responsibilities

1. Autonomous Navigation

Develop systems that enable the rover to map its environment and detect obstacles using onboard sensing technologies.
Build and refine autonomous navigation algorithms that efficiently and safely guide the rover toward set destinations.
Select and configure sensors capable of identifying terrain features and obstacles in challenging Antarctic environments.

2. Motion Control & Actuation

Design and implement control systems that allow the rover to autonomously move and adjust its path in real time.
Integrate actuation hardware with navigation software to ensure smooth, reliable mobility across uneven and icy terrain.

3. Communication & Data Handling

Develop strategies for short- and long-range data transfer, allowing remote monitoring and control of the rover.
Implement robust data acquisition and storage systems that can function in extreme environmental conditions.

4. Fault Recovery & Resilience

Program autonomous emergency protocols to recover from critical system failures.
Design and test fallback navigation strategies to maintain operational integrity in high-risk scenarios.

5. Monitoring & Diagnostics

Monitor system performance through watchdogs and real-time component status tracking.
Set up fault detection systems to report anomalies and initiate preventive maintenance actions.

6. Energy-Aware Operation

Coordinate with the Energy Management Subteam to regulate power allocation based on energy budgets and mission priorities.
Optimize software and hardware behavior to reduce unnecessary energy consumption during idle or low-activity periods.

Qualifications

Programming experience
- Familiarity with languages such as Python and C++
- General understanding of programming environments and basic concepts
- Hands-on experience in some coding projects
Technical skills and knowledge:
- Familiarity with basic concepts of machine learning and autonomous systems
- General understanding of control in systems
- Interest and willingness to learn this and a lot more
Soft skills
- Collaboration and communication within the subteam, but also with members from electrical and energy management
- We value members who take things into their own handsand show initiative.
- Rapid prototyping and iterative design require team members to be flexible and responsive to unexpected challenges in demanding polar conditions.
- As part of Team Polar’s aim to foster a professional learning environment, senior members guide newcomers through hands-on training, ensuring skills are passed on effectively