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NASA Robots and Rovers At Play In the Desert

Posted by timothy on from the not-enslaving-robots-no-sirree dept.

Geoffrey.landis writes "Robots and rovers will be running around in the desert in the NASA Desert RATS ('Research and Technology Studies') test in Arizona, including the heavy-lift rover 'All-Terrain Hex-Legged Extra-Terrestrial Explorer,' or ATHLETE. (See videos from newscientist.com). Some NASA robots from an earlier field test of robotic lunar excavators can be seen on video from the NASA page."

2 of 54 comments (clear)

  1. THIS .... by WindBourne · · Score: 4, Insightful

    is exactly what NASA should be doing. RD to develop systems for off-world exploration and sciences. If we really do privatize Launch and hopefully human capabilities, we can allow NASA to go back to what they did in the 60's; RD new ideas/concepts and push the boundaries of science.

    --
    I prefer the "u" in honour as it seems to be missing these days.
    1. Re:THIS .... by kj_kabaje · · Score: 3, Insightful

      While I agree with the premise of NASA doing more basic research the privatization remark is a non sequitur. NASA has consistently had its funding slashed since the 60's. Increasing funding to allow them to do basic research should be the aim, not maintain a budget which doesn't allow them to perform their current appropriate and mandated missions.