The Astrobee robotic free-flying vehicle with tentacle-like arms was tested in a demonstration experiment aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
NASA astronaut sonny williamsThe current commander of Expedition 72 on the International Space Station poses with the robotic vehicle in the new Kibo laboratory module. Photo shared by NASA. Williams can be seen modeling the curved arms of a robot designed to wrap around objects to help with satellite maintenance and space debris management.
Astrobi is one of three cube robotic systems developed by NASA Assist the astronauts on the space station. The free-flying robots perform a variety of tasks, including recording experiments or taking inventory, and are capable of autonomously navigating, docking and recharging within the orbiting laboratory.
The tentacle-like arm is mounted on an Astrobee robot aboard the spacecraft. space station As part of a demonstration of an innovative technology called the Responsive Engaging Arm for Captive Care and Handling (REACCH).
Related: Come meet the Astrobees! These tiny cube-shaped robots have arrived in space
Flexible arms extending from the robot’s body are equipped with gecko-like adhesive pads designed to mimic the reptile’s ability to stick to surfaces, which in turn could help future spacecraft capture space objects such as satellites or debris. Size, shape or surface material, according to NASA experiment page.
REECH technology was used with Astrobee to test how the tentacle arm would perform in a space station environment. This technology demonstration also aims to investigate the physics of interactions between multiple free-floating objects and REECH’s ability to safely and repeatedly capture and reposition objects in orbit. If successful, REECH could be used to serve satellites space and assisting in orbital maneuvers and clear clutter Maximizing spacecraft life low earth orbit.
“This development in robotics may extend the life of robots satellite and capable of clearing space debris,” NASA officials said in a statement releasing the new photos.
Tests aboard the space station included using the arm during free-floating target acquisition, where the targets were made of different materials and had different surface conditions. The purpose of the test is for the robotic arm to demonstrate its ability to safely capture different objects. microgravity environment.
Williams took over command of the International Space Station on September 22. The task was extended The following questions starliner The spacecraft makes it impossible to bring them back Earth. The two are expected to return to China in February 2025 Space Exploration Technologies Corporation Crew 9.