NASA is developing a snake-like robot known as Exobiology Extant Life Surveyor. In this article, you can learn more about this new robot, its applications and other details for the IAS exam science and technology segment.
Exobiology Extant Life Surveyor (EELS)
It is a robotic platform that is designed by NASA to explore various types of terrain, specifically those that are difficult or impossible for humans to access (terrain of other celestial bodies).
Image source: www-robotics.jpl.nasa.gov
- Objective:
- Its primary purpose is to investigate internal terrain structures to assess their habitability and search for signs of life.
- Specification:
- The EELS system is powered by an actuation and propulsion mechanism, with power and communication electronics driving its movements.
- The EELS employs a rotating propulsion system that operates similarly to tracks, along with a grasping mechanism and propeller unit, to navigate through confined areas such as plume vent exits.
- Significance:
- This product’s adaptability extends to a range of terrains, encompassing oceanic landscapes, fluidized media environments, complex labyrinths, and liquid surfaces.
- This adaptability makes it an incredibly versatile tool for exploring a wide range of environments that were previously inaccessible.
- By exploring and assessing these environments, NASA hopes to gain a better understanding of the potential for extraterrestrial life and its origins.
- Probable sites of investigation:
- Enceladus, the sixth-largest moon of Saturn
- Martial polar caps
- Work to identify other probable sites of investigation is underway.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA):
- It is the United States government agency responsible for space exploration and aeronautics research.Â
- Established in 1958, NASA has played a significant role in numerous achievements in space exploration, including sending the first human to the moon in 1969 as part of the Apollo program.
- Know more about NASA in the linked article.
Exobiology Extant Life Surveyor:- Download PDF Here
| Related Links | |||
| NISAR Mission | Indian Space Research Organisation | ||
| OSIRIS-REx Mission | Juno Mission | ||
| Chandrayaan-II Mission | UPSC Science & Tech Notes | ||
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