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Technology for Small Spacecraft (1994) / Chapter Skim
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9 Robotics, Automation, and Artificial Intelligence
Pages 70-74

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Select key terms on the right to highlight them within pages of the chapter.


From page 70...
... This section is directed toward the following applications for robotics, automation, ant} artificial intelligence as they relate to small spacecraft applications that the pane! believes offer great potential payoffs: small microrovers capable of rapid deployment and numerous operations, for robotic exploration of Mars; and small robotic spacecraft and intravehicular robotics, which can contribute to crew productivity and the health and maintenance of major space assets such as the Space Station and the Hubble Space Telescope.
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From page 71...
... Major enhancements in the ability of microrovers can be made by investing in the development of small calibrated science instruments and small robotic manipulators capable of extended operations and improved analytical skills on the planets. Fully autonomous microrovers capable of independent exploration and reporting could turn a network of small rovers into a powerful research tool.
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From page 72...
... Other technology developments recommended throughout this report, such as miniaturized guidance and control and communication components; high-capacity, lightweight computers; and advanced materials and structures, could also contribute to the effectiveness of these small robotic spacecraft. One way to achieve planetary surface technology development objectives in the near term while accomplishing significant scientific objectives, would be to conduct experimental work on the surface of the moon.
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From page 73...
... FINDINGS AND PRIORITIZED RECOMMENDATIONS Recommendations for NASA technology development for spacecraft subsystems that are also applicable to small robotic spacecraft are addressed in other sections of this report. The recommendations included here apply to technologies specific to small robotic spacecraft or peculiar to the robotic technology.
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From page 74...
... The technology should be applied to the development of a free-flying robotic spacecraft for inspection, maintenance, and research support on the Space Station. Beyond the NASA-unique advantages, the continued investment in automation, artificial intelligence, and robotics is in the broader national interest.
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Key Terms

  • robotic spacecraft
  • mars pathfinder
  • artificial intelligence
  • solar power
  • science instruments

  • microrovers capable
  • nasa mars
  • space shuttle
  • nasa centers
  • johnson space

  • pathfinder project
  • space telescope
  • hubble space
  • space center
  • flight times

  • german rotex
  • free flyers
  • mars surveyor
  • microrover exploration
  • autonomous vehicle

  • robotic arms
  • autonomous operation
  • recommendations included
  • productive research
  • extravehicular activity

  • unmanned ground
  • expectations involving
  • spacecraft applications
  • crew complements
  • planetary surface


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