# Algae-Powered Rover Robots The 'MARS' Robotic Rover Harnesses Solar Energy in a Natural Way By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2022-01-19 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robotic-rover References: [yankodesign](https://www.yankodesign.com/2022/01/19/this-algae-balls-powered-robotic-rover-generates-energy-using-photosynthesis/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-algae-balls-powered-robotic-rover-generates-energy-using-photosynthesis) & [uwe.ac.uk](https://www.uwe.ac.uk/)  The '[MARS](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/atv-trike)' robotic rover has been developed by a team of researchers at The University of the West of England as a solution that would enable exploration like never before. The unit consists of the marimo algae that is held within that would would enable the robot to traverse demanding [aquatic landscapes to collect information](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/roboturtle) related to oxygen level and temperature. The algae is confined inside a 3D-printed exoskeleton and would enable the unit to draw energy from the sun's rays for operation. The 'MARS' robotic rover -- which stands for Marimo Actuated Rover [Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/parallel-web-systems) -- is currently in its early phases of research and could help to radically change how we explore the deepest reaches of some of our aquatic environments. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.5/10 - Popularity: 57% | Activity: 68% | Freshness: 11% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [AI](https://www.trendhunter.com/ai) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Algae-powered Robotics:** The use of algae as an energy source in robotics offers an opportunity for sustainable and eco-friendly innovation. - **Aquatic Exploration Robotics:** As the MARS robot demonstrates, there are opportunities for robotics to revolutionize our understanding of the world's oceans and aquatic environments. - **Exoskeleton Robotics:** The 3D-printed exoskeleton used in the MARS robot highlights the potential for exoskeletons in robotics to provide additional support for unique applications. ### Where This Applies - **Renewable Energy:** The utilization of algae as a source of renewable energy in the MARS robot offers opportunities for further research and development in the energy sector. - **Marine Science:** The exploration capabilities of the MARS robot could be transformative for marine science, providing access to previously unexplored aquatic environments. - **Robotics Manufacturing:** The 3D-printed exoskeleton used in the MARS robot is an example of the evolving role of advanced manufacturing in robotics innovation. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Solar-Powered Charging Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/solar-mars-bot.md) - [Autonomous Aquafarming Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cultivation-robot.md) - [Modular Planetary Exploration Vehicles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/astrolab-flex-rover.md) - [Solar-Powered Rover Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/solar-rover-kit.md) - [Solar-Powered Robotic Pool Cleaners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wybot-m1-ultra.md) - [Solar-Powered Robotic Lawnmowers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sunscout-pro-robot-lawnmower.md) - [Water-Mapping Autonomous Boats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/watermapping-autonomous-boats.md) - [Compact Mycelium Biohybrid Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mushroom-robot.md) - [Autonomous Sailing Research Vessels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/research-vessel.md)