Canadian Space Robotic Systems for Space Exploration
- Paper number
IAC-06-A5.2.03
- Author
Dr. Nadeem Ghafoor, MDA, Canada
- Coauthor
Dr. Christian Sallaberger, MDA, Canada
- Year
2006
- Abstract
For over two decades space robotics has a key element of Canadian Space Program with over $2-billion of investment. Canadian robotic arms designed and built by MDA are used on virtually all flights of the Space Shuttle and the three robotic systems comprising the Mobile Servicing System * SSRMS, MBS, and SPDM * have been designed and built for the International Space Station. Sophisticated Canadian robotic systems for autonomous satellite rendezvous and servicing missions have been delivered to US programs, including the rendezvous lidar system for the US Air Force XSS-11 mission and the robotic system for the DARPA Orbital Express satellite servicing mission. Now as 21st Century human and robotic exploration moves in earnest beyond Earth orbit, key technologies are being developed to extend this world leading space robotics heritage into international science and exploration missions targeted towards the Moon, Mars and Near-Earth Objects.
This paper provides an overview of Canadian activities currently underway in the area of space exploration robotics, including mobility systems, surface and subsurface sample acquisition, processing and handling systems; lidar and camera based guidance navigation and control systems; and science instrumentation. Application of these systems across key human and robotic exploration mission phases is discussed, from orbit, descent and precision landing through surface traverse, target selection and in situ investigation, to eventual resource utilization and automated assembly of space structures. The role of Canadian technology in NASA and ESA*s exploration programs is also discussed, as preparations are made for the next chapter in the global human and robotic exploration of space.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-06-A5.2.03.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.