Astrobays, NASA’s trio of free-flying robots, are making waves in the scientific community as they assist astronauts and conduct valuable research on the International Space Station (ISS). In the latest issue of Upward, the official journal of the ISS National Lab, researchers are highlighted for using these robots to test innovative new technology with applications for future spaceflight missions and on Earth.
For example, engineering firm Bosch has partnered with aerospace company Astrobotic to use Astrobees to test smart microphone technology that can detect anomalies in spacecraft and equipment by analyzing sounds. In another project, researchers from MIT and the German Space Agency used robots to test algorithms and technology aimed at recovering overturned satellites in space.
In addition to their technological prowess, astrobays are also being used to cultivate a future workforce in the space industry through MIT’s Zero Robotics competition. Students in grades 6-12 participate in coding challenges to control free-flying robots on the space station, giving them exposure to astronauts and inspiring interest in science and engineering careers.
The article “Free-flying robots in space: How real-life droids are testing new technology” delves deeper into the role of astrobays on the ISS and their impact on technology research and development. Upward magazine focuses on reporting the results of experiments sponsored by the ISS National Laboratory that demonstrate the value of space exploration. The complete volume 7, issue 1 of Upward magazine is available for download, along with previous issues.