A Review of NASA Human-Robot Interaction in Space

This review provides an overview of the motivation, challenges, state-of-the-art, and recent research for human-robot interaction (HRI) in space. For context, we focus on NASA space missions, use cases, and systems (both flight and research). However, the discussion is broadly applicable to all activities in space that require or make use of human-robot teams. To date, HRI in space has largely been limited to remote interaction between humans on Earth and robots in space. This interaction is associated with telerobotic operations—from direct (manual) control to intermittent, supervisory control. Recent work, however, has begun to address a wide range of human-robot arrangements (co-located, remote, 1:1, groups, etc.). In addition, researchers have been studying human-robot teaming theory and system design, efficient interaction methods, and human-robot communication. We begin by describing NASA’s use of robots in space for both deep space science and human exploration. We then describe several aspects of HRI that are important for space missions, with emphasis on factors that are critical or unique for the space environment. Next, we provide a brief overview of HRI associated with space systems, including technology demonstrations. Finally, we conclude with a short survey of recent research, which will affect human-robot interaction for both Artemis missions and future missions to Mars.