NASA astronauts aboard the International Space Station to use augmented reality technology to repair devices

NASA is developing an augmented reality (AR) app for astronauts to allow them to inspect and maintain International Space Station (ISS) equipment without the need for assistance with ground control. The agency hopes that this will reduce the impact of communication delays between the International Space Station crew and NASA mission control in Houston, Texas, United States. While communication delays are often imperceptible, NASA says this project will increase astronauts’ independence in making quick and informed decisions. This project will mainly benefit the space agency in the exploration of the Moon and possibly Mars.

Astronauts typically receive ground control instructions in a PDF file that can be viewed on a computer or tablet. But having these tools on hand while working on machines in a confined space limits productivity. in a Articles Mail, NASA He said the T2 Augmented Reality (T2AR) project makes it possible to display tips in astronauts’ glasses and direct their gaze using 3D landmarks, showing them actual working locations. He can also follow verbal instructions to follow the procedures. This facilitates the process of inspection and maintenance.

AR technology uses Microsoft technologies HoloLens With custom design With Programming. In April, astronaut Soichi Noguchi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) was tasked with maintaining a piece of exercise equipment, using new technology. two more He is Later, astronauts used it and further tests were planned.

“Augmented reality tools are showing promising results in allowing us to prepackage advice and experience,” said Brian Dansbury, ISS associate scientist at Johnson Space Center. He said the space station was the “perfect platform” to test and improve augmented reality systems.

There was a renewed interest in exploration moon Like a stepping stone to reach space far from Earth. via Artemis program, NASA intends to use new technologies to explore the moon and prepare for human missions Mars. To make the most of these missions, NASA has developed new technologies and one of them is augmented reality where the communication delay after the moon is sure to last longer. Artemis aims to land on the south pole of the moon, where there were no humans before, by 2024.