Later this year, NASA’s R2 will become the first humanoid robot resident of the International Space Station. The launch of the handsome android, which until now had not been firmly scheduled, has now been fast-tracked to happen this September.
Before the bot goes up, it has to be tested in conditions of vacuum, low gravity, high radiation, and trained sensitivity to the unusual practices on board the ISS.
NASA has released a new video showing off R2’s impressive capabilities.
Introducing Robonaut2
R2 was developed through a Space Act Agreement by NASA and General Motors. It is faster, more dexterous and more technologically advanced than its predecessors and able to use its hands to do work beyond the scope of previously introduced humanoid robots.
R2: Asrtronauts’ New Coworker
Robonaut2 can use the same tools as humans, which allows it to work safely alongside humans on Earth and in space.
Additional Strength
R2 is able to lift, not just hold, this 20-pound weight (about four times heavier than what other dexterous robots can handle) both near and away from its body.
Gym Rat
R2 working on its curls, demonstrating its lifting power.
Human-Like
R2’s human-like shape was a product of the fact that it was built to work with people, assisting with dangerous work both on Earth and in space.
Cooperative
Chris Ihrke, senior project engineer for General Motors, works with Robonaut2 at Johnson Space Center.
And Agreeable
R2 works hand-in-hand with Chris Ihrke, senior project engineer for General Motors.
