Astronauts on China’s Tiangong space station have been receiving support from an “intelligent” robot.
Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong, and Wang Haoze — the current crew of the Shenzhou 19 mission on Tiangong — have been collaborating with a robot named Xiao Hang (“Little Space”) that utilizes human-robot cooperative interaction software.
This software has enabled them to conduct various experiments concerning human-robot spatial dynamics, characterization of robot behavior, and multimodal interaction technologies. These experiments aim to promote mission efficiency by enhancing the interactions between astronauts and robotic systems, as reported by China Central Television (CCTV).
Xiao Hang can be observed maneuvering and positioning itself in microgravity and is capable of aligning and capturing photographs upon request. However, it may assume larger responsibilities in the future.
Related: China’s space station, Tiangong: An exhaustive guide
“In the future, it will also be equipped to carry out diverse tasks such as in-cabin inspections and resource management following enhancements,” stated Wang Haoze, China’s first female spaceflight engineer, in a New Year’s greeting message, as reported by Global Times reported.
The crew, in the meantime, has been occupied with an array of experiments. Recently, they completed tasks including gathering fruit flies, emptying their culture containers, and organizing sample collections. The research endeavors to investigate the impacts of sub-magnetic fields and microgravity on the insects.
The astronauts have also conducted a series of precise movement measurements utilizing specialized motion measurement devices and experimental software. The objective is to gain insights into variations in fine motor control and the adaptive learning processes of astronauts during extended space missions.
The Shenzhou 19 crew launched to the Tiangong space station on Oct. 29, commencing a mission that will last six months. The astronauts performed their first extravehicular activity, or spacewalk, on Dec. 18.
China accomplished the construction of Tiangong in 2022. The nation plans to maintain the orbital station, which is approximately 20% the size of the International Space Station, continuously occupied and operational for a minimum of 10 years. Additionally, China aims to expand the three-module facility with further modules.