NASA's EELS (Exobiology Extant Life Surveyor) project is developing a self-propelled, snake-like robot designed specifically for exploring extraterrestrial environments.

EELS is tailored to address the unique challenges of exploring Saturn's moon Enceladus, which is believed to harbor a subsurface ocean beneath its icy crust.

Data from NASA's Cassini spacecraft has revealed geysers at Enceladus' south pole, indicating potential access to its ocean for life detection.

As of September 2023, EELS has successfully demonstrated its capabilities in field tests at Athabasca Glacier in Alberta, Canada, simulating conditions on Enceladus.

During these tests, the EELS 1.5 prototype autonomously descended 1.5 meters into a moulin, showcasing its ability to navigate challenging environments.

This project represents a paradigm shift in robotic exploration, allowing EELS to learn and adapt its navigation strategies in real-time, enhancing its effectiveness in unexplored terrains.

Hiro Ono, the Principal Investigator, describes EELS as part of 'Robotic Exploration 3.0', emphasizing its autonomy and adaptability.

EELS employs stereo cameras and lidar to create 3D maps of its environment, utilizing AI for real-time autonomous navigation, which reduces reliance on Earth-based control.

Each segment of EELS is equipped with independently actuated counter-rotating screws for propulsion and grip, allowing it to adapt its shape and movement to various terrains.

Beyond Enceladus, EELS could potentially explore various celestial bodies by adapting its movement strategies to different terrains, such as Titan's sandy dunes or Kuiper Belt Objects.

The adaptability of EELS positions it as a versatile tool for future space exploration, capable of tackling diverse planetary missions.

Currently, several prototypes of EELS have been built and are undergoing testing to refine its capabilities.