Space robotics in Europe: A survey

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Abstract

Europe has been very active in developing space robotics systems and technology for close to 15 years. This survey paper serves as the introduction to the Special Issue on Space Robotics in Europe. It first highlights the most significant differences between space and terrestrial robots. Next, it structures the space applications scenarios into internal and external robotics in Low Earth Orbit (essentially the Space Stations), robotics for servicing of geostationary satellites, for in-orbit assembly of large space structures, and mobile robots (rovers) and manipulator-type robotics for surface operations on the Moon, on Mars, on comets and on asteroids. Finally, it gives an overview of the major European space robotic technology research and development programs. From this context, it extensively refers to the individual papers of this Special Issue for more in-depth treatment.

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