Lab replicates outer space to test new robot

Mario is a new robot being tested at Cranfield University

Scientists have built a lab that replicates the conditions of space to test how robots could assemble large structures in orbit.

Cranfield University is testing Multi-Arm Robot for In-Orbit Operations (Mario) at the Astra-Lab in Cranfield, Bedfordshire, a facility simulating the space environment.

Mario's development aims to make space-based projects such as solar power panels and large telescopes viable.

The Astra-Lab and Mario will be used for testing various space missions and provide both academics and students with hands-on experience in space robotics.

Astra-Lab stands for Advanced Space Technology for Robotics and Astronautics laboratory.

The purpose-built facility has a friction-free floor and a projector system to replicate light from the Sun.

It also uses a compressed air system to simulate working in free-floating conditions.

Astra-Lab was opened by Lord Patrick Vallance, minister for science

Mario will initially be controlled from Earth with a future goal of autonomous operation.

It is hoped large structures can be sent into space in a flat-packed format, alongside a robot like Mario to carry out assembly.

Cranfield's Dr Leonard Felicetti designed and built the robot.

"Having a cutting-edge facility like this gives us an opportunity to be right at the forefront when it comes to both space robotics and guidance, navigation and control," he said.