The exploration of uncharted territories presents a formidable challenge, particularly in the context of venturing to other planets. However, a pioneering project has been initiated with the support of the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory, which may alleviate this issue. This endeavor, known as the Multi-Resolution Scanner (MRS), seeks to employ advanced 3D mapping technology to produce detailed maps of distant environments, utilizing NASA’s Astrobee system aboard the space station.
This joint undertaking between Boeing and CSIRO underscores the importance of international collaboration, drawing upon the extensive expertise of both entities within the global space industry. As Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO has made significant contributions to the space sector, including the reception of television signals from NASA’s Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969. The current collaboration represents a significant opportunity to support future exploration missions and terrestrial industries.
The specific objective of MRS is the rapid generation of 3D maps with unprecedented detail, encompassing environments such as the space station and even the surfaces of the Moon or Mars. Through the utilization of multiple sensors and advanced technology, MRS is capable of compensating for the limitations of individual sensors, resulting in highly accurate 3D data and trajectory information, thereby enhancing our understanding of robotic movements in space.
The efficacy of MRS is contingent upon its state-of-the-art photogrammetry software, namely Stereo-Depth Fusion and 3D SLAM technology (Wildcat), developed by CSIRO. This software enables MRS to autonomously map, analyze, and navigate its surroundings. The validation of this software’s effectiveness in space is currently underway, with Marc Elmouttie and his team mapping a known location on the space station – the Kibo module. This investigation was launched to the space station in March as part of SpaceX’s 30th Commercial Resupply Services mission, under contract to NASA.
If the initial findings are positive, the MRS technology could be expanded to encompass other modules on the space station, augmenting its mapping capabilities and advancing the technology for future spaceflight missions. This would represent a noteworthy development, particularly in light of NASA’s planned lunar Gateway and other forthcoming space outposts, which may rely heavily on robotic crews.
Scott Copeland, director for ISS research integration at Boeing, has underscored the significance of harmonizing crew and robotic tasks to enhance safety in space missions. He has asserted that the MRS technology will play a pivotal role in meeting these objectives and enhancing capabilities for journeys to the Moon and beyond.
Moreover, beyond its applications in space exploration, MRS technology holds potential for a broad array of terrestrial industries, including mining and disaster relief. It could also be leveraged to identify potential damage to spacecraft and seek out valuable resources on other planets.
In summary, the MRS technology, if proven effective, has the capacity to revolutionize space exploration and confer benefits upon numerous industries on Earth. The collaborative efforts of Boeing and CSIRO, bolstered by NASA’s support, stand to usher in significant advancements that may shape the trajectory of space exploration and technological innovation.