Innovative Chinese Dual-Mode Drone Paves the Way for Mars Exploration

Researchers at the Harbin Institute of Technology have developed a cutting-edge land-air drone that weighs only 300 grams, comparable to the weight of an apple. Designed for both ground mobility and aerial flight, the prototype can effortlessly transition between rolling on the ground and taking off via a pair of counter-rotating coaxial rotors, achieving stable flight and directional control.

The drone is engineered to maneuver across different types of terrain, with the ability to switch between configurations like dual wheels or a spherical form. This versatile design enables it to navigate obstacles, conserve power when moving on the ground, and potentially extend flight endurance up to six times that of similar-sized devices.

Developed by the School of Astronautics, the research team focused on minimizing weight and size to facilitate efficient takeoff and landing, as well as reduced power consumption. The drone’s design allows it to be outfitted with mechanical arms for a variety of tasks, making it suitable not only for Mars exploration but also for diverse applications such as monitoring, flaw detection, and maintenance.

Further enhancing its adaptability, the prototype has been tailored specifically for environments with challenging conditions, like the thin Martian atmosphere. Future plans involve deploying these drones in a range of settings, including underground construction sites, coal mines, and pipeline passages, where their mobility and endurance can assist in exploring and monitoring hard-to-reach areas.