Nasa intends to expand the use of its Astrobee free-flying robots that carry out various activities aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

The cube-shaped robots – named Bumble, Honey and Queen – have been helping astronauts and researchers perform technology demonstrations, scientific research and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) activities in space since 2018.

The battery-powered robots fly around the space station’s modules using electric fans for propulsion and can ‘see’ their surroundings using lights, cameras and other sensors. They have interchangeable ‘arms’ that allow them to hold objects or remain steady for tasks requiring stability, and magnets to ensure they stay securely docked when recharging.

Nasa is now seeking input from US companies for further ideas to foster scientific, educational and technological development on board the station.

“Dozens of institutions collaborate with Nasa to use the Astrobee system to test new hardware and software...