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The robot fuels the spacecraft

17.03.2012

On July 12, 2011, American astronauts brought to the ISS a robotic module for refueling RRM spacecraft. Now, finally, NASA is ready to begin the long-awaited RRM test in orbit. On March 7-9, 2012, the module was attached to the Canadian 17,6-m Dextre manipulator, which was an important step in further space exploration.

RRM is a joint project between NASA and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). RRM is a device for refueling satellites and other spacecraft. In the future, such devices will be able to extend the operation of space technology. Today, a satellite's empty tanks actually mean the end of its mission - it's the same as throwing a new car out of fuel. For space technology, this is too expensive a "pleasure".

Initially, the RRM will be operated from a ground post at the Johnson Space Center and tested to ensure that valves, pumps and all other components needed to transfer fuel are working properly. RRM will then move on to the complex filling port operations that are installed on many satellite platforms.

The example of the Hubble telescope showed how important the maintenance of spacecraft in orbit is, and what great results can be achieved by extending various missions.

Robotic refueling is a very difficult task. Before launching a satellite, technicians fill its fuel tank through a valve, which is then closed with triple thermal insulation. The RRM must remove this insulation using manipulators and wire cutters, connect to the satellite's fuel system, and then close the filling valve again. The RRM is about the size of a washing machine, weighs about 250 kg and contains a 1,7 L ethanol tank that will be used to demonstrate in-orbit refueling capability. In the future, robotic satellites equipped with such refueling modules will be able to refuel various spacecraft and significantly extend their service life.

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Animal behaviorists from the University of Sussex (UK) found that their wards even use voting. Opinion on controversial issues is expressed in different ways. Gorillas grunt, chimpanzees squeal. When a flock of swans is about to take to the air, the birds begin to stretch their necks and nod their heads. As soon as the frequency of such movements in most birds reaches 26 per minute, the flock rises to the wing.

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