The Future is Now: NASA’s Astrobees Bring Innovative Technology to Space

Astrobees, NASA’s trio of free-flying robots, have become a reality on the International Space Station (ISS). These robots are assisting astronauts and conducting valuable research, including investigations sponsored by the ISS National Laboratory. In the latest issue of Upward, researchers are highlighted for their use of the Astrobees to test innovative new technology with applications for future spaceflight missions and on Earth.

For example, engineering firm Bosch partnered with aerospace company Astrobotic to utilize the Astrobees to test smart microphone technology that can detect anomalies in spacecraft and equipment by analyzing sounds. In another project, researchers from MIT and the German Space Agency used the robots to test algorithms and technology aimed at recovering tumbling satellites in space. The Astrobees are also being used to cultivate the future space industry workforce through MIT’s Zero Robotics competition. Students in grades 6-12 participate in coding challenges to control the free-flying robots on the space station, giving them exposure to astronauts and inspiring interest in science and engineering careers.

The Upward article “Free-Flying Robots in Space: How Real-Life Droids are Testing New Tech” delves deeper into the role of Astrobees on the ISS and their impact on research and technology development. Upward magazine focuses on communicating the results of ISS National Lab-sponsored experiments that showcase the value of space-based research. The full Volume 7, Issue 1 of Upward is available for download, along with previous issues.