TESTING SPACE ROBOTICS ON THE JAPANESE ETS-VII SATELLITE

Abstract

Introduction ETS-VII (Engineering Test Satellite VII) is a NASDA programme designed to test key rendezvous, docking and robotics technologies in space. The Japanese space agency has built, launched and operates this test satellite, equipped with a robotic manipulator and a small subsatellite, to carry out such experiments. In response to a NASDA call for co-operation, ESA proposed two experiments to be conducted on-board ETS-VII. The ESA proposal was accepted with the understanding that NASDA and ESA would jointly co-operate in the development and operation of the two experiments. The ESA rationale for the co-operation There are several reasons why the ESA Technical and Operational Support Directorate has pursued co-operation within the ETS-VII project. Firstly, earlier ESA research and development (R&D) activities have developed several space-robotics technologies to a high level of maturity. Their feasibility has been proven mainly through ground-based demonstrations. However, in-flight demonstrations are essential for full acceptance of these technologies, but are difficult to organise because they are expensive and not readily covered by R&D funding. Consequently, when the ETS-VII project opened its doors to international cooperation, it presented a unique flight-demonstration opportunity.