Airbus engineers in Stevenage, UK, are currently utilizing a Steam Deck as a controller for a prototype of the ExoMars rover. The handheld device runs custom software, allowing operators to maneuver the rover using its built-in thumbsticks, triggers, and face buttons during ground-based testing.
The choice of the Steam Deck stems from its architecture as a Linux-based handheld PC. Unlike standard gaming controllers from Sony or Microsoft, the device offers the necessary flexibility to integrate specialized software required for complex robotics development.
The team at Airbus is currently focused on designing mechanical, thermal, and propulsion systems for the landing platform of the Rosalind Franklin rover. This mission, which aims to reach Mars by 2030, represents the culmination of over 20 years of engineering work.
While the Steam Deck is instrumental in the current development phase, its role is limited to Earth-based testing. Once the Rosalind Franklin rover reaches the Martian surface, it is designed to operate autonomously, independent of the handheld control interface.
