Drone News

Drone Designed for GPS-Denied Mars Conditions Secures ISRO Top Prize

Posted by

Pradipta V Mukherjee

August 30, 2025

On August 30, 2025

Following its students’ victory in the esteemed ISRO Robotics Challenge — URSC 2025, which had as its theme Fly Me to Mars, Pune Institute of Computer Technology (PICT) has garnered media attention. In a breakthrough that could eventually help with exploration on Mars or other alien terrains, the nine-member team created a drone that can function in areas where GPS is not available. On August 23, the results were announced.

Students were given the task of creating autonomous aerial vehicle navigation systems without the use of external navigation aids like GNSS, pseudolites, or reflector arrays. The challenge was organized by ISRO’s U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC). The PICT team won after competing against 510 teams from all over India, including IITs and NITs.

Under the direction of mentor Sandeep Gaikwad, associate professor of electronics and telecommunication at PICT, the winning team members were Aryan Shukla, Toshit Warke, Bhavika Panpalia, Atharva Joshi, Dhawal Telele, Nandini Deshmukh, Kaushal Chaudhari, Hrushikesh Patwardhan, and Nimish Satav.

Because GPS and magnetic fields are not available on Mars, their drone was built to autonomously scan the terrain, locate safe landing areas, and land without assistance from humans. The team used a Raspberry Pi wide camera with optical flow algorithms for localization and a 1D LiDAR for altitude sensing in order to accomplish this. To create a depth map of the surface, a 2D LiDAR on a servo was utilized to sweep over a 110° by 160° field.

The drone was able to identify safe, level landing areas by using gradients and sophisticated computer vision techniques. This method successfully transformed a cheap 2D LiDAR into a 3D LiDAR, showcasing creativity within financial limitations. Compared to many competitors who used expensive equipment, the project’s total cost was significantly lower at ₹50,000 to ₹60,000.

The students built a 9×12 meter Mars-style arena on campus and put the drone through several test scenarios in order to replicate real-world conditions. Even though the drone crashed in midair during the last round, the team was able to successfully finish the task thanks to their prompt repair work.

They received national recognition and a ₹10 lakh cash prize for their efforts. Beyond the prize, the accomplishment showcases a potent fusion of technical proficiency, resourcefulness, and perseverance.

In line with India’s emerging leadership in space technology and exploration, the project serves as a brilliant illustration of how low-cost domestic innovation can support upcoming space missions.

Pradipta V Mukherjee

CEO, Mavdrones

Pradipta V Mukherjee is the visionary CEO of Mavdrones & Drone Pathshala, driving innovation and growth in the drone industry. With a passion for advanced technology, he leads the company's strategic direction, ensuring Mavdrones stays at the forefront of drone solutions. Under his leadership, Mavdrones has achieved remarkable success, including winning the 'Best Innovation and Technology in Drone Industry' award from ASSOCHAM. Pradipta is committed to revolutionizing the industry through advanced UAV technology, fostering a culture of excellence and forward-thinking within the organization.