Autonomous Robotic Capabilities in Space Exploration: From Mars to Beyond

摘要

The historical timeline of automated systems functioning in space settings spans around 75 years, whereas the existence of practical automated equipment to facilitate astronomical observation dates back over 200 years. Over time, physical servomechanisms have seen advancements in both hardware and software capabilities, enabling their successful operation on the Martian surface and even during journeys to the heliopause, which marks the outer boundary of interstellar space. Contemporary spaceflight operations exemplify a growing capacity to provide decentralized coordination across several automated systems, intricate communication networks, and diverse communities of scientists and engineers. This article examines the impact of autonomous robotic functionalities on space explorations, specifically emphasizing the investigation of Mars' surface. The article examines the use of robotic systems in past missions, specifically focusing on their application in activities like as the identification and analysis of water ice deposits, study of geological features, and the deployment of sensor devices. The article further emphasizes the achievements of autonomous operations in missions conducted in Earth's orbit, as well as the progress made in developing autonomy for operations in close vicinity to minor celestial bodies. This research explores the Chang'e 4 lunar mission and the OSIRIS-REx mission as instances of autonomous exploration and sample gathering on minor celestial bodies. The research also encompasses the exploration of prospective autonomy in forthcoming expeditions to oceanic realms and distant locales.