NASA's Humanoid Robot Unveiled On Space Station
CAPE CANAVERAL (CBS4) – Astronauts at the International Space Station have some new company. The first humanoid robot ever launched into space is finally free. Astronauts unpacked Robonaut 2 1/2 weeks after its arrival via the space shuttle Discovery. NASA broadcast the humorous unveiling ceremony Wednesday.
American Catherine Coleman and Italian Paolo Nespoli pried off the lid of the robot's packing box, as though they were opening a coffin. TV cameras showed lots of foam inside, but no robot.
Robonaut, also known as R2, was spotted seconds later in front of a work station.
Testing will begin in May. Until then, R2's fists will remain clenched and its arms folded up against its chest. The robot exists from the waist up. Legs should arrive next year.
Although its primary job for now is teaching engineers how dexterous robots behave in space, the hope is that through upgrades and advancements, it could one day venture outside the station to help spacewalkers make repairs or additions to the station or perform scientific work.
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