Airbus engineers have integrated the Valve Steam Deck into the testing phase of the ExoMars rover prototype. The handheld console is currently being used to control the robotic vehicle during ground-based trials that simulate Martian conditions.
The rover project focuses on developing an autonomous system capable of navigating the Martian surface, as signal latency prevents real-time remote control from Earth. During testing, however, engineers require direct manual input to maneuver the prototype.
The Steam Deck was chosen for its combination of a Linux-based PC architecture, a built-in display, and physical controls including sticks, buttons, and triggers. This setup provides a more ergonomic solution for real-time operation compared to using a laptop with an external controller.
Valve's design philosophy emphasizes openness, allowing users to install custom software and operating systems on the device. According to Valve engineer Yazan Aldehayyat, the hardware's versatility makes it suitable for various professional applications beyond gaming.
