Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Credit: NASA
Scientists are developing teleoperated systems for remote-controlled robots that could be used to explore the moon and Mars. These systems will allow human operators on Earth to control rovers, aiding in tasks such as digging and assembling.
Researchers from the University of Bristol tested their teleoperation system at the European Space Agency’s (ESA) facility in Oxfordshire. The system successfully manipulated a robotic arm to dig a sample of lunar regolith simulant using a virtual simulation.
Credit: Joe Louca
The system eliminates the need for camera feeds, which face a 1.3-second delay between Earth and the moon. Future signals for lunar missions could be relayed through ESA’s planned Moonlight project, ensuring smoother communication with robots.
The virtual simulation includes haptic feedback, allowing operators to feel the texture and resistance of lunar regolith. This feature helps improve control by mimicking the tactile properties of moon dust under low gravity.
Credit: Joe Louca
The teleoperation system could be used to train astronauts for future moon missions. The simulation provides a realistic experience, preparing astronauts for conditions they may encounter on the lunar surface.
Representative pic
One challenge researchers face is building trust in the virtual system’s performance. Studies showed the system was efficient 100% of the time when scooping regolith and trustworthy 92.5% of the time during testing.
Credit: Joe Louca
While the system was designed for the moon, it could also be adapted for Mars missions. Teleoperated robots could assist in complex tasks such as retrieving samples from Mars for return to Earth.
The system could play a valuable role in supporting upcoming crewed and uncrewed lunar missions, including NASA’s Artemis program and China’s Chang’e program, by aiding in preparation and operations.