An artists concept of the FFR Mission’s robotic system payload (Image source: Motiv Space Systems; edited)
NASA and its partners plan to launch a commercial robotic arm to low Earth orbit in late 2027. This move is set to provide opportunities for advancing in-space robotics, which scientists believe will be crucial in future space missions.
Planned missions to Mars and the Moon will require humans spending extended time outside our planet. To sustain those missions, these humans will need some help. The spacecraft carrying crews may also require repairs during such missions. Robots could offer assistance in these areas. NASA and its partners are set to enable these future missions by advancing in-space robotics with the Fly Foundational Robots (FFR) mission.
FFR is a demonstration mission that involves flying and operating a commercial robotic arm in low Earth orbit. Motiv Space Systems designed the robotic arm to operate with high precision. The robotic arm is capable of moving from one part of a spacecraft to another and can use tools on its own.
This mission can help in developing ways to repair and refuel spacecraft with robots. It can also help in constructing habitats and infrastructure either in space, on the Moon, or on Mars.
Through the potential breakthroughs from FFR, astronauts can have robotic assistants to help them in extended missions to Mars and the Moon. Industries on Earth that use similar technologies could have their own fair share of improvements when in-space robotic systems advance. These industries include construction, medicine, and transportation.
Today it’s a robotic arm demonstration, but one day these same technologies could be assembling solar arrays, refueling satellites, constructing lunar habitats, or manufacturing products that benefit life on Earth. — Bo Naasz, senior technical lead for In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM) at NASA Headquarters in Washington.
Chibuike Okpara – Tech Writer – 309 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2024
I have always been fascinated by technology and digital devices my entire life and even got addicted to it. I have always marveled at the intricacy of even the simplest digital devices and systems around us. I have been writing and publishing articles online for about 6 years now, just about a year ago, I found myself lost in the marvel of smartphones and laptops we have in our hands every day. I developed a passion for learning about new devices and technologies that come with them and at some point, I asked myself, “Why not get into writing tech articles?” It is useless to say I followed up the idea — it is evident. I am an open-minded individual who derives an infinite amount of joy from researching and discovering new information, I believe there is so much to learn and such a short life to live, so I put my time to good use — learning new things. I am a ‘bookworm’ of the internet and digital devices. When I am not writing, you will find me on my devices still, I do explore and admire the beauty of nature and creatures. I am a fast learner and quickly adapt to changes, always looking forward to new adventures.