There exist many different combinations of human and robotic cooperation within space exploration. Instead of acting as precursors, robots can be modified to act as assistants to humans if humans are onsite. The examples are as follows:
For reasons of safety, effectiveness, and efficiency, the telerobotic approach is ideal for space exploration and colonization. From this analyzation, we understand that, at the very least, humans must be reincorporated into exploring space if we wish to increase effectiveness. The telerobotic approach shares similarities with our current approach however it requires human and robot be in close proximity to one another. We do not have to walk every step with our robots nor do we need them to travel too far without us if we are to concentrate on one approach. With the expansion of the human race, we will be able to view Earth-related problems from a different perspective. This will result in new knowledge such the answers to fundamental questions regarding the origin and evolution of planets and life. Human Space colonization should be looked at as a beginning and not an end.
There exist many different combinations of human and robotic cooperation within space exploration. Instead of acting as precursors, robots can be modified to act as assistants to humans if humans are onsite. The examples are as follows:
- Machines can provide terrain-based or aerial reconnaissance. This information can help humans plan exploration routes and locate certain targets.
- Another example of robotic assistant potential is the robotic "mule." According to Geoffrey Landis, "The robot mule can hold tools such as rock-hammers, drills, and cameras, and will carry samples back to the habitat ... Robots designed to do the routine and repetitive jobs of science can do tasks like setting out remote instrumentation, deploying solar arrays and radiators, and cleaning off deposited dust after a Martian dust storm." Machines can also provide short and long-range transportation via rovers.
- Telerobotic exploration is a combination of human and robot which allows humans to control robots from a distance however it requires a high-fidelity, high-bandwidth connection so the physical distance between robot and human can't be too far. 'Teleoperated robotics allow for humans to remain in a habitat and see what a robot in close proximity sees in real time while also controlling the robot in sharp detail. The telerobotic approach decreases risks for humans thus allowing humans to explore dangerous areas. A robot can also have radar, infrared, and/or gamma-ray eyes which allow humans to see further than what the human eye can see alone. An example of this telerobotics approach is the 'robonaut.'
For reasons of safety, effectiveness, and efficiency, the telerobotic approach is ideal for space exploration and colonization. From this analyzation, we understand that, at the very least, humans must be reincorporated into exploring space if we wish to increase effectiveness. The telerobotic approach shares similarities with our current approach however it requires human and robot be in close proximity to one another. We do not have to walk every step with our robots nor do we need them to travel too far without us if we are to concentrate on one approach. With the expansion of the human race, we will be able to view Earth-related problems from a different perspective. This will result in new knowledge such the answers to fundamental questions regarding the origin and evolution of planets and life. Human Space colonization should be looked at as a beginning and not an end.