Abstract: This paper proposes a method for the system configuration and design on the rover stereo vision system, being able to guarantee the safety of the rover by avoiding hazardous situation. The requirements have been analyzed in terms of real-time response, filed of view, the resolution and accuracy of sensors, and computation capability, and present principles for designing a stereo vision system for planetary rover. A series of configuration equations are presented that describe relationships between important system parameters, intending to improve the engineer's ability to make trade-off decisions early in the design process.