Q. With reference to the Relocatable Robotic Manipulator-Technology Demonstrator (RRM-TD) used in SpaDeX mission, consider the following statements:
1.It is India’s first space robotic arm with walking capability.
2.It is designed to showcase the capability of robotic arms in performing tasks such as assembly and maintenance in space environments.
3.It is designed for use only in microgravity environments.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Explanations –
Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The Relocatable Robotic Manipulator-Technology Demonstrator (RRM-TD) is India’s first space robotic arm with inchworm-like walking capability, developed by ISRO’s Inertial Systems Unit (IISU). It was successfully demonstrated during the PSLV-C60 SpaDeX mission. The RRM-TD features advanced robotic manipulation, obstacle-aware motion, and precision assembly, making it ideal for tasks like satellite servicing and in-orbit assembly. These capabilities are crucial for future missions such as the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
Statement 3 is incorrect. While the RRM-TD is optimized for operations in microgravity (as demonstrated on the POEM-4 platform), its design allows it to perform tasks beyond microgravity-specific environments, such as satellite servicing and debris management. Its versatility makes it applicable to broader space robotics applications, not limited to microgravity alone.
Source: The Hindu
