Designing Space Robots

In this special episode of The Robot Report Podcast, editors Mike Oitzman and Eugene Demaitre discuss with engineer Chris Finger the role of Harmonic Drive in space robotics, exploring the challenges and innovations in designing robots for space applications. The conversation kicks off with a look at Harmonic Drive‘s significant contributions to space missions, starting with the Mariner 4 mission in 1964 and extending through the Apollo missions, for which it provided drive wheels for lunar rovers. Finger also explains how space projects demand extreme reliability, often at 99.99%, and how new space operators like SpaceX and Amazon are shifting toward cost-effective satellite constellations.

He shares insights into the technical challenges of designing for space, such as dealing with extreme temperature swings and vacuum conditions. Finger cites the advantages of Harmonic Drive solutions, including flexibility in materials and configuration.

In addition, the podcast episode touches on the evolving industrial ecosystem in space, as the private sector sets its sights on in-orbit manufacturing and resource exploitation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of space exploration and the pivotal role of robotics in this exciting frontier.