Shared, multi‐use remote robotics facilities

The purpose of the Shared Multi‐Use Remote Robotics Facilities (SMURRF) development is to (1) assess, design, develop, and demonstrate a scientist‐friendly robotic system to cost‐effectively automate space science/experiment operations [Phase I and II], (2) develop and implement SMURRF on the Space Shuttle and Space Station, and (3) commercialize component and system technologies. SMURRF will provide a simple, flexible, and functional manipulation capability to assist space operations in crewed and un‐crewed modes. As longer duration space operations become a reality with less crew‐hours per experiment available or practical, orbiting science automation and robotics will become enabling technologies for many scientists in early man‐tended phases of operation, and provide the abilities to remotely interface with the experiment.