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2Built to Work with Humans
3More Technologically Advanced than Its Predecessors
4Surpasses Previous Dexterous Humanoid Robots in Strength
5R2 in the Lab
6R2 Opens Door for New Versatility
“This cutting-edge robotics technology holds great promise, not only for NASA, but also for the nation,” says Doug Cooke, associate administrator for the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “I’m very excited about the new opportunities for human and robotic exploration these versatile robots provide across a wide range of applications.”
7Robonauts Hardly a New Concept
The idea of using dexterous, humanlike robots capable of using their hands to do intricate work is not new to the aerospace industry. The original Robonaut, a humanoid robot designed for space travel, was built by the software, robotics and simulation division at Johnson in a collaborative effort with the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency 10 years ago.
8R2 Expands Capability for Construction and Discovery
“Our challenge today is to build machines that can help humans work and explore in space,” said Mike Coats, Johnson’s center director. “Working side by side with humans, or going where the risks are too great for people, machines like Robonaut will expand our capability for construction and discovery.”