Robots could assemble space infrastructure without humans
A UK proof-of-concept project has demonstrated that robotic technology could build infrastructure in space without human intervention.
The AlbaTRUSS project, a collaboration between the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and Space Solar, used remotely operated dual-arm robotic manipulators to show that robots could assemble gigawatt-scale solar power satellites.
In a statement, Dr Sam Adlen, co-CEO of Space Solar, said: “The AlbaTRUSS project is a milestone not just for our satellite architecture, but for the future of large-scale structures in space, from data centres to energy infrastructure.”
Space Solar aims to harness solar energy in space to provide power to consumers on Earth. Its space-based solar technology requires satellites comprised of hundreds of thousands of modular units to be put together in orbit.
“Up in space, the sun shines 24-7. Once constructed, these satellites capture solar power and beam it back down to Earth in the form of microwaves, which can be received by antennas on the ground and converted into electricity for the grid,” said Dr Adlen.
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