Introduction to Robots and rovers

In this specialty, you will learn about the role of Robots and Rovers in space exploration. A robot is a general term for an automated machine that performs tasks either at the direction of humans or through its programming. A rover is a robot that can move around the surface of a planet or a Moon. Scientists value robots and rovers because they allow them to make observations and measurements at distant and hostile locations that would either be too risky or impossible for the scientists to observe first hand. On earth, there are many industrial robots that are used on the manufacturing line. Robots are also used to construct the ISS. A futuristic robot that is being designed to build the ISS is shown in the figure.

Robonauts that NASA is designing for the ISS. These are advanced robots that can latch on to the station and still have two "hands" free for manipulating objects and building the station as if it were a Tinkertoy.

This specialty consists of the 4 modules listed below:

Your role is that of Robot and Rover Specialist. While working on the 4 modules, you will gain a lot of knowledge on what has already been done and what the future may hold. Keep in mind that what you will be learning should also be used in the preparation of the final team project. Talk with your team members from the start about the project and decide what your contribution will be. To complete the assignments always start with the Key Resource. Complete the assignments in your notebooks.