China’s lunar research station could be guarded by robot watchdogs, space scientists say

China’s Lunar Research Station May Employ Robot Watchdogs

According to a blueprint developed by researchers working on China’s lunar base, the country’s lunar research station could potentially be guarded by robot watchdogs. The concept, proposed by scientists from the China Academy of Space Technology, involves three astronauts working alongside intelligent machines, including custom-designed robot dogs.

The robot dogs would be used to patrol the research station, scout for hazards, and assist astronauts in searching for scientifically valuable rocks. One astronaut would direct the two robot dogs across the lunar landscape, while another would collect rock samples and conduct detailed scientific work. A third astronaut would remain inside a pressurized rover, coordinating the mission and controlling other robots as needed.

The robots would also take on routine tasks such as daily patrols and inspections, regulating air and temperature, cleaning living spaces, tending to plants, and preparing meals. Additionally, they could provide companionship to astronauts, helping to ease the psychological strain of living in an isolated environment.

The researchers, who published their concept in the journal Chinese Space Science and Technology in July, emphasized that future lunar exploration would depend on “astronaut-led decision-making and autonomous robots carrying out the work.” They noted that China is extending the frontier of human space flight from Earth orbit to the moon, and that the use of autonomous robots would be crucial in supporting this effort.

Article and image source: scmp.com