It seems like the next advancement in NASA technology is sending humanoids into space to help with the daily mundane tasks on the space station. The robots would give extra help to the astronauts while not requiring food or rest. The can also quickly prepare to go outside of the space station in seconds, allowing for faster repair of the shuttle in case of emergency. Currently on the space station there is part of one of the robots, with the rest being sent up on the last shuttle launch in June of this year.
The robot would allow for research and discovery in places where humans cannot go, they don’t require oxygen and can fit into smaller spaces because of not having to carry tanks or wear bulky suits. Currently researchers are working on various appendages for the robots that mimic human movements and can be controlled by a computer. They will never replace real astronauts in the space station, but they allow for an easier life for those up there. Technology is not good enough yet to allow the humanoids to explore on their own or last very long with the amount of electricity they require and it will take time to develop.
I think it’s very cool that we are now sending robots into space to aid on the space station. It allows for us to advance the research being conducted in space; which allows for better scientific advancement here on Earth. They are an extra set of hands that can help, but do not require any much more than being plugged in at night to recharge.
http://www.foxnews.com/scitech/2011/05/08/robonaut-humanoids-space-program/
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