Software: the “invisible hand” of space robotics

Software: the “invisible hand” of space robotics

Whenever robotics are discussed, we see fascinating pictures of the hardware—hands, joints, humanoids, and so on. My recent articlein Room, the European Space Journal, is no exception. But here’s an important thing to think about: how is that hardware CONTROLLED?...
DARPA looking for a new partner in space robotics

DARPA looking for a new partner in space robotics

A couple of weeks ago, we posted that DARPA’s partner for the RSGS program had pulled out, citing financial challenges: https://spacenews.com/ssl-cancels-darpa-satellite-servicer-agreement/ DARPA has reacted quickly by reaching out to the US aerospace industry for a...
How to do space servicing safely

How to do space servicing safely

An illustration of Space System Loral’s concept for a satellite servicing system it is developing with DARPA. Credit: SSL Inspecting, repairing, and upgrading satellites in space will make them cheaper, last longer, and able to perform more missions. But the...