Science / Space
Caltech robot assembles a truss section in orbit
The demonstration built an initial section, not the entire planned reflector.
Status: source-checked.
A Caltech robotic assembly demonstration built part of a truss in orbit without astronauts performing the construction, the university said Thursday. The ASTRA system launched with two prebuilt sections and assembled a third section in space.
The DARPA-funded project uses a manipulator to pick up struts and joints from dispensers. Its planned reflector is 1.4 meters in diameter, but time limits allowed construction of only the initial section, Caltech said.
According to Caltech, the university said the mission is unlikely to finish the full assembly before ending in December. The result is a proof of concept for building structures in orbit, not a completed large telescope or antenna.
What we know / what we don't
What we know
- A Caltech robotic assembly demonstration built part of a truss in orbit without astronauts performing the construction, the university said Thursday. The ASTRA system launched with two prebuilt sections and assembled a third section in space.
- The DARPA-funded project uses a manipulator to pick up struts and joints from dispensers. Its planned reflector is 1.4 meters in diameter, but time limits allowed construction of only the initial section, Caltech said.
- According to Caltech, the university said the mission is unlikely to finish the full assembly before ending in December. The result is a proof of concept for building structures in orbit, not a completed large telescope or antenna.
What we don't know
- Performance claims come from the project team and have not been independently tested.
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