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About

Vinh To is a robotics researcher whose work sits at the intersection of space exploration, human-robot teaming, and autonomous systems. His research has made significant contributions to NASA's efforts in both lunar surface operations and intravehicular robotics aboard the International Space Station. To's most-cited work centers on free-flying space robots, most notably the Smart SPHERES platform (41 citations), a teleoperated free-flyer enabling astronauts and ground controllers to perform intravehicular activities aboard spacecraft. He also contributed to the development of Astrobee, NASA's next-generation autonomous ISS robot focused on offloading routine crew tasks. Alongside his orbital robotics work, To has been deeply involved in lunar surface exploration, investigating how robots and humans can collaborate effectively for site surveys, resource prospecting, and terrain mapping. His field testing of utility robots for lunar operations (24 citations) and human-robot site survey methodologies (22 citations) reflect a sustained commitment to practical, mission-ready robotics. Across his body of work, To has explored LIDAR-based teleoperation, hydrogen prospecting with planetary rovers, and autonomous inspection systems — research conducted in analog environments like Haughton Crater. With over 140 cumulative citations, his contributions offer foundational insights for researchers designing robotic systems for the next era of space exploration.