The Human Exploration Telerobotics project, one of NASA's new, high-value Technology Demonstration Missions, equipped the compact, free-flying satellites - known as Synchronized Position Hold, Engage, Reorient Experimental Satellites, or SPHERES - with a Samsung Nexus S handset that features Google's open-source Android platform.
Each volleyball-sized SPHERES has its own onboard power, propulsion, computing and navigational software. Adding the smartphone transforms the satellite into a free-flying robot, or "Smart SPHERES" - complete with a compact, low-power, low-cost embedded computer and built-in cameras and sensors to enhance and expand robotic operations.
Minor modifications were made to the smartphones, including removing the GSM cellular communications chip to avoid interference with station electronics, and replacing the standard lithium-ion battery with AA alkaline batteries. Otherwise, the smartphone is identical to the off-the-shelf consumer device.
The ongoing experiment demonstrates how the Smart SPHERES can serve as remotely operated assistants for astronauts in space. In coming months, these compact assistants will conduct interior station surveys and inspections, capturing mobile camera images and video.
NASA also plans to simulate external free-flight excursions and in time will test whether the robots can handle other, more challenging tasks.
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