Space robotics and manipulators — The past and the future

Abstract This paper presents the current state of the technology in space robotics. Some historical developments and the experience gained during those projects have been discussed. The challenge of space exploration and related danger requires even larger use of robotic devices. Many tasks and jobs are being automated. The exploration of the Moon and Mars requires autonomous, mobile robots to gather various information, measurements and data. The introduction of the Space Shuttle and related activities required an efficient robotic manipulator for in orbit operations. The Space Station Mir (in-orbit) and especially Space Station Freedom or Alpha (planned for the very near future) require advanced robots and manipulators. The Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS) and Special Purpose Dextrous Manipulator (SPDM) have been shown and briefly reviewed. Those and other robots for future missions are discussed in this paper.