Enhancing Dexterity in Space Environments:
The Potential of Soft Robotic Systems 

Objectives

Robotic operation in space faces a consistent trade-off between building simple and resilient systems to withstand the extreme conditions, and maintaining flexibility in the robot system to keep up with rapidly changing conditions. Soft robotics offers the promise of robotic performance in unstructured environments. This workshop will bring together two fields to discuss challenges and potential solutions: space manipulation and soft robotics. Topics will range from  and beyond. The workshop will include presentations and demonstrations of cutting-edge approaches, as well as discussions to develop a unified framework. 

The intent of this workshop is to bring together researchers working at the intersection of space robotics, manipulation and soft robotics. The challenge of operation in extreme and unpredictable environments is applicable to a broad range of robots, across different sizes and functionalities. Soft robotics brings a new perspective for space challenges, offering materials and mechanism solutions to complement conventional rigid robots.  Soft robotics presents a compelling case for space exploration primarily due to its advantages over rigid robotics. These robots are inherently more adaptable to unpredictable environments, offer greater flexibility and resilience in handling various tasks such as repairs, exploration and sample collection on celestial bodies. Their ability to conform to irregular surfaces and withstand impact makes them ideal for navigation rough terrain and confined spaces, crucial for missions involving planetary exploration and asteroid mining. Moreover, the lightweight and compact nature of soft robots reduces operational complexity and launch costs, enabling more efficient and cost-effective space missions. By leveraging these capabilities, soft robotics not only enhances the feasibility of complex space missions, but also explands the scope of scientific exploration beyond what rigid robots can achieve.  To focus the discussion, the workshop will be split into two thematic sections: manipulation and deployable structures. Both of these topics are highly relevant to the space robotics community, and for both soft robotic technologies have been developed, albeit not specifically for extreme environment applications. We have gathered experts in space robotics, materials science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, from industry, academia and government organizations to discuss these topics, to find common themes and solutions.

 Topics will include: 

• Robotic operation in extreme environments.  

• Soft robotics  

• Compliant mechanisms  

• Smart and responsive materials 

• Space manipulation.  

Previous experiences: 

Prof. Duduta has previously organized a workshop at ICRA 2022. 

Prof. Santra has previously organized the HERMES workshops at ICRA 2023 and 2024

Dr. Carol Martinez has previously organized a workshop at IROS2023 and iSpaRo2024