Robots for space exploration

Purpose – This paper aims to provide a technical description of the robots that have been deployed in space, primarily on the Moon and Mars. Design/methodology/approach – Following an introduction, this paper describes the robotic devices that have been deployed on the Moon and Mars. It also considers the latest Mars robot mission, the humanoid robot recently deployed on the International Space Station and robotic developments for use during proposed future planetary missions. It concludes with a brief consideration of the impact of space robots on terrestrial robotic technology. Findings – The paper shows that robots have been developed which can withstand the hostile environment of space. They have made a significant contribution to lunar and Martian science and some of the technology has had an impact on terrestrial robots. Originality/value – This paper provides a technical insight into the robots that have operated on the surfaces of the Moon and Mars.