Re:readiness? (Score 1)

Sensors can detect a boulder from a bush. Lasers have a 'reflectivity' or 'brilliance' factor that is unique for each material type. A bush puts off a different recognizable 'signature' than a boulder. IR cameras can also detect heat signatures, and visible light cameras can regognize these objects as well. It's not a question of sensors anymore. It's a question of on-board computing power to handle the output of the sensors. You then get into the vehicles power budget, and how a self-contained vehicle can generate enough AC or DC power to run the computers, sensors, switches, GPS, INS, 'drive by wire' systems, etc. and still leave room for supplies!