New vision system to support the inspection and maintenance of the ISS

Uploaded on January 7, 2016

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New vision system to support the inspection and maintenance of the ISS

2016-01-07 - The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) has commissioned the design of an advanced vision system for Dextre, the International Space Station's (ISS's) versatile robot. 

Dextre will use the new hand-held tool to inspect the external surfaces of the orbiting laboratory and sleuth out signs of damage caused by natural ageing and by small meteorites and orbital debris that regularly hit the Station. 

A sophisticated new vision system for the ISS's robotic helper : http://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/iss/news.asp  
  (Credits: Canadian Space Agency, NASA, Neptec)

Minister Navdeep Bains: It is an honour for me to be here to make my first visit to the Canadian Space Agency.

Space inspires humanity to challenge our curiosity and really pushes us to innovate.

This is why I am pleased today to announce that Canada will develop a new sophisticated vision system for Dextre on the International Space Station.

It will conduct regular inspections of the station’s external surfaces and identify signs of damage caused by small orbital debris, often hidden to the naked eye.

Like most space innovations, this technology may be used for missions that we haven’t even imagined yet. Perhaps on missions to future destinations like the Moon or even Mars?

Today's announcement is yet another example of how the Canadian Space Agency and our country’s space companies advance innovation, science and research —three areas that are among our government’s top priorities.

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