News
NASA to send human-like 'Robonaut' to space
By: cnn.comPosted On: 04/20/2010 11:40 A
Tweet
In a not too distant future, on a space station not too far away, there will be a 300-pound human-like robot to assist astronauts on space missions.
In a not too distant future, on a space station not too far away, there will be a 300-pound human-like robot to assist astronauts on space missions.
And it will be a GM.
At least that's the plan for Robonaut 2, or R2, a space station robot developed by NASA and General Motors Corp.
R2 is set to make its debut in September on space shuttle Discovery. While not quite as handy as C-3PO or R2D2 from the "Star Wars" franchise, NASA officials have equipped Robonaut 2 with human-like hands and arms to hold the same tools that station crew members use.
NASA.gov: See more photos of Robonaut 2
"This project exemplifies the promise that a future generation of robots can have both in space and on Earth, not as replacements for humans but as companions that can carry out key supporting roles," said John Olson, director of NASA's Exploration Systems Integration Office.
The R2 has yet to be tested in microgravity and electromagnetic environments, but, GM officials say they are heavily testing the Robonaut before it goes into space.
While R2 undergoes extreme testing, GM officials hope the technology can be used in auto plants that use robotics.
Latest VLogs
iLoveMakonnen "Loudest of the Loud Tour - On the Road Pt. 2"
Life With Ty Dolla $ign (Ep. 7)
