Published by The Mars Society with permission. FIELD TESTING A ROBOTIC ASSISTANT FOR USE IN EXTRA-VEHICULAR ACTIVITIES

For an astronaut conducting field research, the dangers and constraints imposed by the environment limit what can be accomplished in the time available. To improve the speed and efficiency of field work, the aid of a robotic assistant would be immensely useful. Such an assistant, under development by the Pennsylvania State University Mars Society (PSUMS), was tested at the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) during the rotation of Crew 25 (February 29- March 13, 2004). Field testing in Mars-like conditions revealed where and how a robotic assistant would be useful in the field. Future testing will include a comparison of identical Extra-Vehicular Activities (EVAs) conducted with and without robotic assistance. Factors such as safety, speed, and ease of EVA completion will be assessed in both situations. Through periodic testing and design revision, the team will be able to determine and implement the most desirable qualities in a robotic assistant