SpaceX’s next resupply mission to the International Space Station will be filled with scientific experiments. These instruments will include a small camera that will track astronauts’ health by scanning their retinas. Another experiment will help them reduce the stress of microgravity on plants using chemical compounds.
However, the most intriguing instrument among them is a new robotic arm that will provide astronauts aboard the ISS with a mechanical hand. The robotic arm is developed by Japanese space robotics startup GITAI and will demonstrate how the technology functions in microgravity.
Robotic arm to be used for complex missions
Depending on the success of the demonstration mission, GITAI is hoping to try out the robotic arm in harsh conditions of outer space as well. It will pave the way for robot-assisted spacewalks and other extra-vehicular activities.
The company believes it’s a great achievement in the field of robotics. “This technology demonstration is to show the world that the capabilities necessary for automation in space are finally available,” said GITAI CTO Toyotaka Kozuki in a NASA statement. “It provides an inexpensive and safer source of labor in space, opening the door to the true commercialization of space.”
As of now, the GITAI S1 Robotic Arm Tech Demo is going to the ISS with the help of the SpaceX Dragon capsule. The launch is scheduled for next week and various tests will be carried out such as flipping switches, pressing buttons, and plugging in or unplugging cables. The movements will be controlled remotely by teams back on Earth.
ISS to get another robotic arm
The space outpost also received another robotic arm called the European Robotic Arm (ERA) that was launched alongside the new Nauka module. It will be responsible for transferring small payloads directly from inside to the outside of the ISS. This will help astronauts cut down spacewalk time significantly.
The ERA is completely made in Europe and is largely funded by the Dutch government. It was built more than three decades ago but couldn’t make it to the ISS during three planned missions due to technical glitches.
