The Robocoaster simulation platform, path and video generation for an authentic mars flight simulation

Abstract

Experiences from "authentic Mars flight motion simulations" are revealed as presented at two exhibitions (AUTOMATICA in Munich in June 2004 and "Tag der Raumfahrt" of DLR at the Sony Center in Berlin in Septmber 2005): A large 6-degree of freedom KUKA "Robocoaster" robot is equipped with one passenger seat and a sphercial screen. On the screen, a video of a virtual flight from Earth to Mars, along an interesting area on Mars, and back to Earth is shown. The Video os based on image of the High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) from DLR taken during the ESA Mars Express mission. In this article the most important parts of this prototype of an exciting entertainmeint system are dicussed, like the generation of synchronized video, sound and robot movement such that the "felt" acceleration is in correspondence with the video.