Robotics in Space: How Astrobees are Changing the Game on the International Space Station

In science fiction movies, robots are often seen zipping around spacecraft and performing various tasks. However, this futuristic concept has become a reality on the International Space Station (ISS) with NASA’s trio of free-flying robots known as Astrobees. These robots assist astronauts and conduct valuable research, including investigations sponsored by the ISS National Laboratory®.

The latest issue of Upward, the official magazine of the ISS National Lab, highlights researchers who are utilizing Astrobees to test innovative new technology with applications for future spaceflight missions and on Earth. For example, engineering firm Bosch partnered with aerospace company Astrobotic to utilize the Astrobees to test smart microphone technology that can detect anomalies in spacecraft and equipment by analyzing sounds.

In another project, researchers from MIT and the German Space Agency used the robots to test algorithms and technology aimed at recovering tumbling satellites in space. The Astrobees are also being used to cultivate the future space industry workforce through MIT’s Zero Robotics competition. Students in grades 6-12 participate in coding challenges to control the free-flying robots on the space station, giving them exposure to astronauts and inspiring interest in science and engineering careers.

Upward magazine focuses on communicating the results of ISS National Lab-sponsored experiments that showcase the value of space-based research. The full Volume 7, Issue 1 of Upward is available for download, along with previous issues.