Yasushi Shoji

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Yasushi Shoji is a leading researcher in space robotics and autonomous systems, with a primary focus on developing crew-supportive technologies for orbital environments. His most notable contribution is the creation of Int-Ball (Internal Ball Camera), an autonomous mobile camera robot deployed aboard the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) on the International Space Station. This spherical drone, launched via SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, revolutionized in-orbit documentation by autonomously capturing images and videos of experiments and equipment, freeing astronauts from manual filming tasks. The 2019 paper detailing Int-Ball has garnered 45 citations, reflecting its significance in advancing human-robot collaboration in space. Shoji’s work exemplifies how compact, intelligent robotics can enhance operational efficiency and safety in microgravity, directly supporting crew productivity on the ISS. His achievements underscore a career dedicated to bridging robotics and human spaceflight, with Int-Ball serving as a pioneering model for future autonomous assistants in space exploration.