Driving the Future of Space Exploration One Rover at a Time

Imagine a student sitting in a classroom and remotely operating a lunar rover on a simulated Moon landscape. Sounds like science fiction, right? But for over 4,500 Canadian grades six to nine students, this has become a reality thanks to the Rover Driving Academy, a unique educational program developed by Mission Control with the support of the Canadian Space Agency. Now, with the collaboration of MDA Space, hundreds more students will have the chance to join the adventure. 

The Rover Driving Academy is more than just a fun and exciting activity; it’s part of a comprehensive curriculum that teaches students about the challenges and opportunities of space exploration. Students take on different roles, such as rover driver, navigator, or scientist, and work together to navigate a rover on a simulated lunar landscape (the “Moonyard”) with lunar-like regolith, rocks, and craters, identifying elements and overcoming obstacles. Through this hands-on experience, students gain a deeper understanding of lunar rover logistics, while also developing essential skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. 

“Space exploration is about collaboration and bringing people together, and we’re thrilled to partner with MDA Space to continue to inspire young minds and help shape the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers,” says Ewan Reid, Founder and CEO of Mission Control. 

So why is the Rover Driving Academy a crucial investment in the future of space exploration and infrastructure? As Ian McLeod, VP of Corporate Development at MDA Space, notes, “Rovers have always played a critical role in space exploration, and the demand for space technology and STEM skills is rapidly increasing as the global space economy grows.”   

By delivering the Rover Driving Academy, MDA Space and Mission Control are not only fostering a pipeline of talented and skilled individuals but laying the groundwork for Canada’s ambitious lunar exploration plans. As the space industry continues to grow and expand, programs like the Rover Driving Academy will play a vital role in ensuring that Canada remains at the forefront of space technology and innovation. And by investing in the education and development of our future space explorers, we’re building a strong foundation for Canada’s continue leadership in the global space economy. 

And MDA Space is no stranger to lunar exploration. With a 15+ year track record of providing complex, highly reliable rover technology and prototypes, we are well positioned to support a new phase of lunar development. As part of the Lunar Outpost Lunar Terrain Vehicle team, we are developing a human-rated Moon rover that leverages our MDA SKYMAKER™ technology, a suite of advanced commercial space robotics and services. 

The future of space exploration is in sight, and with programs such as the Rover Driving Academy, MDA Space is helping inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers who will take us back to the Moon and beyond. That journey starts here, in the classrooms of Canada, where students are driving the future of space exploration and infrastructure, one rover at a time. 

For more information about the Rover Driving Academy or to sign up your class, visit Rover Driving Academy—Mission Control.