There’s a possibility that NASA will have a manned visit to Mars in 2037, well, at least that’s the plan. As part for the mission, they will require special vehicle that is capable to accommodate 4 passengers up to as long as 4 weeks.

Manned Mars Expedition Rover (MER) is a design proposal for this future mission, the design takes into consideration every possible elements required for the passengers to survive in that hostile environment. You can also say that this vehicle doubles the requirement for redundancy. The main power for MER is electric but due to the requirement of continuous, reliable energy, this vehicle is also equipped with a removable on board Dynamic Isotope System. It will be augmented by roof mounted solar panels, enough for short distance trips.

Designer : Montgomery Design International and Ergonomic Systems Design

Each of six wheels is equipped with electric motors where both sets of front and rear wheels are steerable. The tires treat of the band are constructed of nano-carbon composite with Solimide foam core. the tire and wheel geometry is set to a 5-degree camber to improve handling on slopes and sandy oil.

MER is designed in parts, shipped in a knocked down state, and can be assembled on site. All materials have been carefully chosen for its lightweight and strength characteristics, the main exterior body panels are constructed of ceramic foam composite originally developed for Space Shuttle for its thermal capabilities and repairability. This design features an electric winch and manipulator arms at the front of the vehicle, there’s an airlock for EVAs, a fixed control deck, and also interchangeable functional modules on different individual mission such as sleeping module, food preparation, lab for some scientific works, or even a crane which would be useful for towing disabled rovers or any other large objects.

Tuvie has received “Manned Mars Expedition Rover” project from our ‘Submit A Design‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their design/concept for publication.