NASA develops OWLAT and OceanWATERS robotics for autonomous ocean world exploration

OWLAT is a physical testing platform equipped with a robotic arm, sensors, and interchangeable tools for sampling, which mimics low-gravity dynamics using a specialised Stewart platform. OceanWATERS, on the other hand, provides a virtual testing ground NASA’s progress with OWLAT and OceanWATERS is a major leap toward autonomous missions capable of exploring distant ocean worlds. Collaboration driving innovation These advanced testbeds are part of broader research efforts funded by NASA’s Autonomous Robotics Research for Ocean Worlds and Concepts for Ocean Worlds Life Detection Technology programmes. A step closer to discovering life beyond Earth NASA’s progress with OWLAT and OceanWATERS is a major leap toward autonomous missions capable of exploring distant ocean worlds.