The inflatable rover, and the big yellow "tires" that gave rise to a new concept for a possible device to explore Mars.

One answer to roving across the surface of Mars may be blowing in the wind. Literally.

Researchers exploring different methods to deliver scientific instruments to various Martian locales are studying the potential for a giant, lightweight, two-story tall beach ball. Equipped with scientific instruments, the so-called "tumbleweed ball" conceived by JPL researchers, could potentially explore vast tracts of planetary terrain, blown by the wind.

The wind blowing across the face of the red planet would be the only engine needed to move the giant tumbleweed ball from place to place, said Jack A. Jones, who is leading JPL's research into various inflatable machines for exploring space. JPL's Inflatable Technology for Robotics Program aims to create rugged, all-terrain vehicles and other devices with low mass and low-packing volume.

A scientific payload, carrying instruments such as magnetometers or water-seeking radar, would be held in place by tension cords at the tumbleweed's center. Cameras mounted inside the ball would peer out at the local terrain. When scientists identify a promising spot and want the tumbleweed to put down roots and sit for a spell, the ball could be partially deflated. Then, when it's time to move along again, the ball could be reinflated to roll on toward new frontiers.

Jack Jones, Test Manager, narrates this video of a test of the Tumbleweed Inflatable Rover

"This is preliminary work," Jones admonishes as he prepares for more field tests. But he is enthusiastic about the promise this technology may hold for the exploration of Mars and other solar system bodies.

Much of Mars' terrain is sloping and littered with boulders, which makes tough going for most vehicles. But researchers were excited by the results of tests this summer of a 1.5 meter-tall version of the tumbleweed. The tests confirmed that 6-meter diameter (about 20-feet) balls should be able to climb over or around one-meter rocks and travel up slopes 25-degrees and higher in the thin, but breezy martian air.