Vandi Verma

Vandi Verma, chief engineer at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, discusses the opportunities for AI in robotics and automation on Mars. She explains how AI is used in digital twin simulations for practicing driving skills before controlling rovers. Verma explores the similarities between risk decisions in Mars exploration and autonomous driving, highlighting the importance of simulations. She also addresses the potential and misconceptions surrounding AI, personal aspirations, challenges in neural networks, limitations of AI in space exploration, and lessons applicable to other areas.

Vandi Verma is a visionary researcher at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, specializing in AI for space exploration. In a captivating discussion, she reveals how AI transforms Mars missions, particularly the autonomous capabilities of the Perseverance Rover. Verma shares insights into the innovative techniques used for navigating the Martian landscape and the crucial role of human-robot interaction. She also reflects on her journey in robotics and dispels common misconceptions about AI, highlighting its potential in advancing exploration.