Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
A team of 15 students from ATLAS SkillTech University in Mumbai has earned a place in NASA's prestigious 2025 Human Exploration Rover Challenge (HERC), becoming the first and only team from India to qualify for the competition’s Remote Controlled (RC) division.
The students are among only three teams selected globally to compete in the RC division. This selection marks a significant achievement for India, highlighting the country’s growing presence in global space exploration challenges.
The team will represent India at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, where they will face off against international teams in designing and building a rover capable of navigating simulated terrains like those on Mars and the Moon.
The rover will need to navigate through obstacles such as rocks, craters, and steep inclines. It must also perform tasks like collecting scientific samples and maneuvering through narrow spaces, all while being remotely controlled.
Credit : NASA
Siddharth Shahani, Co-founder and Executive President of ATLAS SkillTech University, emphasized that this achievement showcases the students' leadership and commitment to innovation in STEM fields.
The NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge is a key event designed to encourage interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It brings together global teams to develop solutions for space exploration challenges.
Credit : NASA
By participating in HERC, the students are not only contributing to space exploration but also gaining valuable experience in solving complex technical problems, which will help shape future innovations in space technology.
This milestone is a testament to India's growing contribution to the global space community, with the ATLAS SkillTech University team’s success adding to the country’s expanding role in international scientific and technological developments.
Credit : NASA