NESCA Awardee Projects

Multi-Lander Communication Framework for JAXA's 2031 Mars Exploration Mission Step-1

Project Lead: Francisco Javier Martin Torres
Institution:Northumbria University
Partner: AVS Added Value Solutions UK LTD
Amount: £64,250

Theme: Smart and Resilient Networks

This is a collaborative project between Northumbria University and AVS UK Ltd. We will design and prototype an advanced communication protocol for inter-lander and lander-to-relay satellite interactions in Mars missions, based on an existing TRL3 prototype. Specifically, it addresses the unprecedented scenario of three simultaneous landers operating on the Martian surface as part of JAXA's planned 2031 Step-1 mission, which represents a step toward more complex, collaborative robotic operations on Mars, where multiple landers must coordinate data sharing, resource allocation, and real-time decision-making while relaying high-volume scientific data back to Earth via an orbiting satellite. The framework could be reused or adapted for future multi-asset planetary or lunar missions, such as NASA's Artemis program, ESA's rover networks, or Earth networks, enhancing its broader commercial relevance. This addresses a key commercial opportunity, as the reusable multi-lander protocol could be licensed or adopted by space agencies and primes for distributed surface missions, driving revenue through IP commercialisation and international partnerships.

More about the Project Lead:

Professor Javier Martin-Torres' research focuses on planetary exploration and astrobiology. He is the co-I of NASA´s Curiosity rover and PI of the HABIT instrument. He works with the Earth-Life Science Institute at the Institute of Science Tokyo on the upcoming JAXA Mars exploration program missions.