About Us
Illinois Robotics in Space (IRIS) is a multidisciplinary student organization formed to compete in the annual NASA Robotic Mining Competition (RMC). IRIS provides an opportunity for University of Illinois students to experience the development of innovative robotic systems in a peer-based learning environment, fostering systems thinking and collaboration through development, manufacturing, and operation of complex, space-oriented robots in a Systems Engineering framework. IRIS’s hands-on learning environment extends into the Champaign- Urbana community through educational outreach projects and demonstrations that promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and inspire the next generation of students about robotics and space exploration. This outreach also attempts to improve educational opportunities and resources for minorities and female populations.
