Krzysztof Skonieczny, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering and Canada Research Chair in Aerospace Robotics, studies how to build better vehicles for exploring new planets, specifically by better understanding the terrain they will encounter.
In his lab, Skonieczny has been developing a new design for the wheels of the ExoMars rover that will be sent to Mars in 2020 by the European Space Agency. He recently took his latest prototype aboard an aircraft which flies in parabolic arcs to simulate different gravity conditions, allowing him to replicate conditions on Mars. This thrilling experiment inspired millions of people through its coverage on Global News, the National Post, CTV, CBC, and many more.