June 6, 2000
Headquarters, Washington, DC
John Ira Petty
Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX
Robonaut, a robotic system that may perform future space-walking tasks using an advanced mechanical hand, will be demonstrated for news media representatives at 1 p.m. CDT Thursday, June 8, at NASA's Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX.
With a hand much like a human's, Robonaut is capable of actions as delicate as lifting small objects with tweezers. It is powerful enough to lift a 21-pound weight on the Earth's surface -- giving it considerable capabilities in the weightless environment of space. The robotic system is designed to use the same tools used by astronauts in spacesuits. The technology is expected to have numerous uses on Earth as well as in space.
In addition to demonstrating the Robonaut, which could be used in assembly of the International Space Station, members of the robotics team will be available for interviews.
News media representatives wishing to participate in this event should contact the Johnson newsroom at 281/483-5111 by 10 a.m. CDT on Thursday to arrange for press accreditation.
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