The applications of the remote control of the manipulation in manned space exploration

The teleoperator system incorporates many of the advantages of manned systems on the one hand, and mechanical systems on the other. Since man is always in the control loop of a teleoperator system, the system is provided the decision making and adaptive intelligence capabilities which are uniquely human. Conversely, since the actual work is performed by the remotely controlled device, the system incorporates the durability, strength, and the expendable nature of a machine. Use of a teleoperator system is generally safer than placing the man at the worksite, and is generally more flexible and adaptable than an automated mechanical system. Potential earth orbital space missions for teleoperator systems, candidate aerospace teleoperator systems to perform these missions, and the current status of teleoperator technology development within NASA are discussed.