The Role of Robots and Automation in Space

Advanced space transportation systems based on the Shuttle and Interim Upper Stage will open the way to the use of large-scale industrial and commercial systems in space. The role of robot and automation technology in the cost-effective implementation and operation of such systems in the next two decades is discussed. Planning studies initiated by NASA are described as applied to space exploration, global services, and space industrialization, and a forecast of potential missions in each category is presented. The Appendix lists highlights of space robot technology from 1967 to the present.