TSUKUBA ROVER TEAM(T.R.T) – Mars Rover for URC and TRC

Team Introduction and Vision

Founded in October 2025, TSUKUBA ROVER TEAM (T.R.T) is composed of 6 students from the University of Tsukuba and Osaka Institute of Technology in Japan. Our team aims to design and build planetary rovers, focusing on developing rover technology for domestic and international competitions. T.R.T is made up of passionate students from various fields, including engineering, robotics, chemistry and geoscience. We are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of rover technology and inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts.

Current Projects and Competitions

One of our current projects is the team's entry in the 2026 Tottori Rover Challenge (TRC) in Japan and the 2027 University Rover Challenge (URC) in the USA. These competitions challenge teams to design, build, and operate rovers that can complete specific missions required for space exploration, such as autonomous driving, carrying building materials, and collecting scientific data.

Hardware Specifications and Mechanical Design

To achieve these ambitious goals, we have developed a robust hardware platform. The rover has a physical footprint of 1000 × 1000 × 1000 mm and weighs 40 kg. For mobility, it utilizes a 4-wheel independent steering system to navigate complex terrains, and it is equipped with a 4-axis robotic arm for precise manipulation and material handling tasks. 

Fig 1. Comprehensive CAD design of the TSUKUBA ROVER 1.

Fig 2. The physical prototype of TSUKUBA ROVER 1.

The T.R.T electronics system

The T.R.T electronics system currently integrates several specialized PCBs, with further development underway to support advanced mission requirements.

Power Delivery and Safety Systems

The Power Delivery Circuit is responsible for managing and distributing power from the Li-ion battery cells to the entire system. It also incorporates a dedicated Emergency Stop (E-Stop) circuit to ensure maximum safety during field operations. 

Fig 3. Custom-designed Power Delivery Circuit.

Motor Control and Precision Feedback

The Motor Control Circuit features a Teensy 4.1 microcontroller unit. It utilizes CAN and I2C protocols to manage the motors and encoders, with the encoders providing essential feedback for precise movement control. Additionally, an LED control socket is equipped for visual status signaling. 

Fig 4. Motor Control Circuit powered by Teensy 4.1.

Navigation and Autonomous Sensor Control

The Sensor Control Circuit also utilizes a Teensy 4.1 microcontroller unit. This board manages the GNSS module and 9DoF sensors through CAN and I2C communications. These sensors are the core components for the rover's autonomous driving and navigation capabilities.

Fig 5. Schematic of the Sensor Control System.

Future Development for Communication and Science Missions

Looking ahead, we are expanding our electronic systems to include a Network Control PCB for stable, long-range communication. Furthermore, to address Science Missions such as soil and atmospheric analysis, we are designing specialized circuits for scientific sensors to collect and process high-precision environmental data. Through these advancements, we aim to demonstrate the full potential of our technology on the international stage.

TSUKUBA ROVER TEAM(T.R.T)

website : https://tsukuba-rover-team.com/

SNS : https://x.com/TsukubaRover