Next-gen robotic technology to refuel, repair satellites, reduce space debris

New Delhi: Scientists are tuned to think of things in the next level. To aid them in refueling and repairing friendly satellites, NASA is joining hands with US government body Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to build robotic technology.

"Service stations in orbit" – the name given to these robotic satellites – would not only refuel satellites but also drastically improve their longevity and lifespan.

According to a report in Futurism, the robots could fix minor maintenance issues, keeping up with current orbiters as they age and sustain damage.

The agencies also believe that the technology could help curb space pollution or debris in the orbit caused by broken satellites abandoned in space.

In 2015, there were about 25,000 human-made objects larger than a human fist and roughly half a million larger than a dime orbiting Earth.

Additionally, these satellites could also face off against mechanical foes in orbit meaning it could sabotage enemy satellites in the event of war, apparently by dismantling opponents or forcing them to crash.

They could also play defense, monitoring for tampering, the report highlighted.

(With IANS inputs)