Robotics in space exploration
CIMON-2 from Airbus has been used on the International Space Station (ISS) for its autonomous flight capabilities, ability to understand and complete tasks, and voice-controlled navigation. It’s designed to help astronauts reduce their stress levels and complete day-to-day tasks, while also being an early-warning system.iSpace’s unmanned rover is designed for surface exploration, but its team also plans for its potential future use in building the first shelters on the moon. The rover is shaped like a metallic beetle, weighs 3.7kg, and is equipped with 360-degree view 3D cameras. It can also wield tools like manipulators and drills to extract resources and build shelters on zero-gravity ground.
NASA’s R5, also known as Valkyrie, was initially built by the Johnson Space Center (JSC) for the 2013 DARPA Robotics Challenge (DRC). This six-foot-tall, 132kg humanoid robot is designed to help astronauts in various tasks while in space. Valkyrie has multiple actuators that allow for 44 degrees of freedom, it’s entirely powered by a battery, has gripper hands, and cameras and sensors on the chest and head.NASA is also working on a robotic spacecraft, Restore-L, which is equipped with technologies, tools, and techniques to expand the lifespan of in situ satellites. Equipped with an autonomous real-time navigation system, Restore-L has algorithms, sensors, and a processor helping it find its way, using its multifunction tools and dextrous arms to grab, refuel, service, and relocate.