Naval Research Lab Completes Development of Satellite-Servicing Robotics
15 November 2024
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) today announced the completion of development of satellite-servicing robotics, a major advancement in space technology that will enable the U.S. Navy to maintain and repair satellites in orbit.
The new robotic system, known as the Robotic Servicing of Geosynchronous Satellites (RSGS), was developed by NRL in collaboration with a team of industry partners. RSGS is designed to perform a variety of tasks on satellites, including inspection, repair, and refueling.
“This is a major milestone for the Navy and for space technology as a whole,” said Dr. Patrick Purtell, NRL’s RSGS program manager. “RSGS will give us the ability to keep our satellites operating longer and more efficiently, and it will also allow us to repair or replace satellites that have been damaged or disabled.”
RSGS is a modular system that can be customized to meet the specific needs of each satellite it services. The system includes a robotic arm, a set of tools, and a vision system. The robotic arm is used to manipulate objects on the satellite, while the tools are used to perform repairs and other tasks. The vision system provides the robot with a detailed view of the satellite, which allows it to plan and execute its tasks with precision.
“RSGS is a highly sophisticated system that represents the state of the art in robotics and space technology,” said Dr. Peter Wegner, NRL’s director of research. “We are confident that this system will be a valuable asset to the Navy and to the nation as a whole.”
RSGS is scheduled to be launched into orbit in 2025. Once in orbit, the system will begin servicing satellites in geosynchronous orbit, which is a region of space that is located approximately 22,000 miles above the Earth’s surface.
The development of satellite-servicing robotics is a major step forward in the Navy’s efforts to maintain and protect its space assets. RSGS will provide the Navy with the ability to keep its satellites operating longer and more efficiently, and it will also allow the Navy to repair or replace satellites that have been damaged or disabled. This new technology will help the Navy to maintain its edge in space and to ensure that it continues to have the capabilities it needs to defend the United States.
About the Naval Research Laboratory
The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) is the Navy’s corporate laboratory. NRL conducts a broad program of scientific research and advanced technological development. The Laboratory, with a total complement of nearly 3,000 personnel, carries out a major portion of the Navy’s research and development in space science and technology, radar, undersea warfare, information technology, and communications and electronics. NRL has served the Navy and the nation for over 90 years and has made significant contributions to the development of radar, sonar, electronic warfare, and satellite communications.
Contact:
Navy Office of Information (703) 697-5342
Naval Research Lab Completes Development of Satellite-Servicing Robotics
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