RMS OPERATIONS SUPPORT: FROM THE SPACE SHUTTLE TO THE SPACE STATION

Like many other technologies, space robotics has evolved significantly over the past twenty years. Canada in general, and MD Robotics in particular, have contributed a great deal to these advances. This contribution is highlighted by the development and operations support of MD Robotics’ Canadarm and the second-generation space manipulator, Canadarm 2 . In this paper, we will highlight the experience and expertise gained while supporting the operation of Canadarm and illustrate how it has influenced both the design and planned operation of Canadarm 2 . It is shown that the lessons learned from this experience are sufficiently general that they can be applied to future space manipulators such as the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, as well as the Japanese and the European Remote Manipulators.