Our ATAR Engineering Studies course provides students with opportunities to apply engineering processes, understand underpinning scientific and mathematical principles, develop engineering technology skills and to understand the interrelationships between engineering projects and society.
In Term 3 our Engineering and Computer Science students embarked on an extraordinary adventure – an exclusive tour of the Australian Space Automation AI Robotics Control Complex (SpAARC). This unique opportunity allowed them to delve into the heart of cutting-edge engineering and innovation, culminating in a round-table discussion with the brilliant minds behind the Lunar Rover project, a mission aiming to return to the moon’s surface.
Behind the scenes at SpAARC
As our students stepped into the SpAARC facility, they were immersed in an atmosphere of innovation and possibility. The tour began with a visit to the operations centre, where they observed Fugro’s management of remote operation – both in space missions and with autonomous ships and undersea exploration vessels, primarily for the oil and gas sector. Our students were given a rare peek into live operations, witnessing the real-time testing, repair and installation of undersea infrastructure.
Next, they visited the space operations control floor, which looked exactly as one might imagine, with rows of monitors ready to analyse incoming data. In February this year the team shadowed the first ever commercial lunar landing executed by Intuitive Machines. Expected to launch late this year the team will take on a significant role in the Intuitive Machines IM-2 mission to the lunar south pole.
The round-table discussion
The highlight of the tour was undoubtedly the round-table discussion. In the main workroom-filled with LEGO models, rover prototypes, circuit boards and computers, our students gathered around the Lunar Rover team – a group of industry leaders with decades of experience at NASA, DARPA and other prestigious institutions.
The discussion covered a wide range of topics:
Design challenges: The engineers shared the intricate design process behind the rover, discussing constraints such as size limitations, weight restrictions and the need for robustness in extreme lunar conditions. Our students realised that real-world engineering involves much more than theoretical concepts.
Systems integration: The team explained how they integrated various systems – navigation, communication, power management and data collection, into a cohesive whole. They emphasised the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, showing our students how different engineering disciplines converge to create a functional rover.
Iterative development: The engineers described the iterative nature of their work, where prototypes were tested, flaws identified and improvements made. It’s a dynamic process requiring adaptability and resilience – insights that left a lasting impression on our students.
Human-machine interaction: Surprisingly, the engineers revealed that not all rover operations relied solely on autonomy. Many tasks are still ‘human-in-the-loop’ from a central command room. Our students marvelled at the delicate balance between automation and human intervention.
Student reflections
After the discussion, our students shared their reflections:
Naum: “Seeing various engineering disciplines come together for a common goal was inspiring. It reaffirmed my passion for engineering beyond textbooks.”
Ashton: “The rover’s design process mirrored what we learn in class. It’s exciting to know that our classroom knowledge aligns with real-world practices.”
Daniel: “Understanding the constant refinement of the rover’s design was captivating. It’s a reminder that engineering is about continuous improvement.”
Roman: “Engineering isn’t just about products; it’s about solving complex problems. And sometimes, good old manual control still has its place.”
The SpAARC facility tour left our students with a sense of awe and possibility. As they stepped out into the sunlight, they carried with them not only memories of cutting-edge technology but also a deeper understanding of what it means to be an engineer.
