Leading The Industry
Motiv’s Custom Mechanisms
With the Motiv team, you can be confident when your mission is on the line with that critical deployment or measurement when using one of our mechanisms.
Imaging Mechanism
Mastcam-Z
When NASA JPL’s Mars 2020 Perseverance rover is searching for rocks that might have signs of past life, or watercourses on the Martian surface, it will use its mast-mounted 3D stereoscopic camera system, the Mastcam-Z, whose optomechanical systems were engineered and built by Motiv Space Systems under the guidance of ASU PI Jim Bell and Malin Space Science Systems.
Overview
The Mastcam-Z sits above the rover at two-meters high and serves as the primary science imager of the Perseverance rover. It is the first high-definition, 3D zoom-capable stereo camera system ever sent to another planet.
Key Capabilities
High-Definition Video
3D Images
Panoramic Color Imaging
28-100mm Zoom Range
Ability to Resolve Features 1mm Across at a Distance of 100-Meters
360-degree swivel and 180-degree up and down panning
Key Applications
Textural Observations
Mineralogical Observations
Morphological Observations
Geologic History Observations
Atmospheric Observations
Astronomical Observations
Rover Navigation
Sample Selection
Sample Extraction Guidance
Sample Caching Guidance
Clients
Mission
Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover
Imaging Mechanism
SOMS Filter Wheel
The SOMS filter wheel was a challenging project that required novel solutions for structural, thermal, and controls. With a hybrid servo/stepper drive schema, we were able to significantly reduce heat load into the cryogenic shroud around the wheel which was needed for proper imaging.
Overview
The SOMS filter wheel will be used on an imaging platform in earth orbit. In addition to engineering and building the wheel assembly and actuator, Motiv utilized its Bravo motor controller with embedded control software to position the wheel.
Key Capabilities
8 Locations for Filters or Powered Optical Elements
Low Power Drive Electronics
Stable Cryo Temperatures for Wheel
100mm Filter Diameter
431mm Outer Diameter
5-Second Transition Between Filters
Key Applications
Multi-Spectral Observations
Powered Element Observations
Clients
Imaging Mechanism
Mastcam-Z Filter Wheel
When NASA JPL’s Mars 2020 Perseverance rover is searching for rocks that might have signs of past life, or watercourses on the Martian surface, it will use its mast-mounted 3D stereoscopic camera system, the Mastcam-Z, whose optomechanical systems were engineered and built by Motiv Space Systems under the guidance of ASU PI Jim Bell and Malin Space Science Systems.
Overview
A wheel containing eight specialty filters mounted in front of the Perseverance rover’s primary imaging sensors, allowing scientists to filter out specific wavelengths of light for a range of scientific applications.
Key Capabilities
Rapid Switching Between Filters
Ability to Operate on the Harsh Martian Environment
Optical Precision
Broadband RGB Bayer Pattern Imaging
Multispectral Imaging in 11 Narrow Filters
Direct Solar Imaging in RGB and 880 nm
Key Applications
Mineralogical Observations
Iron Oxide Characterization
Geological Observations
Solar Observation & Imaging
Water / Ice Identification
Clients
Mission
Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover
What Can We Engineer for You?
Our team of experienced, proven engineers are ready to develop your next mechanism. Whatever your requirements, whatever your application, we can help.
