DUSTUP IN THE DESERT

ASEE Prism, Sep 2005 by Grose, Thomas K

DARPA

WHAT IF YOU held a race that nobody won because it was too difficult? Well, if you're DARPA-the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency, the Pentagon office that funds cutting-edge research-you schedule another one. And make it even tougher. DARPA's March 2004 Grand Challenge saw 15 autonomous robotic vehicles vying to finish a grueling 142-mile race in California's punishing Mojave Desert. None finished. The best machine, Sandstorm-a Hummer-based botmobile built by a Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) team led by engineering professor Red Whittaker-only made it just beyond 7 miles. It reached speeds of 20 mph before hitting a fence. DARPA deemed the race a success because it helped advance autonomous vehicle technology. This year, Grand Challenge II, set for October 8, will feature a more difficult course, replete with natural and human-made obstacles. And DARPA is doubling the prize money to $2 million. CMU is returning, this time with two vehicles, including an improved Sandstorm -THOMAS K. GROSE