orion crew exploration vehicle

11.22.09

Meet Lemur IIa, the Autonomous Space Handyman Robot

Versatile robots will rule the heavens, or at least ensure that they run efficiently

By Amber Sasse Posted 07.07.2009 at 9:06 am 1 Comment

Lemur IIa is a robot designed to autonomously inspect and maintain in-orbit space equipment such as the Orion crew exploration vehicle. Shown below on a model space telescope, the Lemur IIa was envisioned as an orbital Swiss Army knife. Each limb has four degrees of freedom and a "quick connect” feature, allowing astronauts to swap in different repair tools as needed.

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READ MORE ABOUT > july 2009, megapixels, orion crew exploration vehicle, robots, space, space stations

Now Hiring: NASA Spacesuit Designer

By popsci Posted 10.02.2007 at 4:56 pm 0 Comments

Calling all fashionista-engineers: NASA is looking for a tailor to create a flexible and strong spacesuit for astronauts working on the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV). The suits have to protect the astronauts from cabin tears and the weightless flight. In addition the suits have to be able to handle moonwalks over an extended period of time. All aspiring spacesuit designers should apply soon; NASA will be awarding the contract in June 2008. The Orion CEV will put the new outfits to use on the first crewed flight to the International Space Station (ISS) no later than 2015 and on the moon by 2020. —Saba Berhie

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