Chinese team expects to launch first robot in space by 2020 to fix orbiting satellites
While initial tasks could help lengthen lifespan of satellites, potential military applications may unnerve foreign powers as space race heats up
China will launch its first robot in space by 2020 to carry out a range of tasks from refuelling satellites to building space stations and even conducting military operations, according to researchers involved in the project.
When finished, it will be the most expensive robot China has ever built. Although the team responsible declined to provide figures, the first launch alone is expected to cost hundreds of millions of yuan (100 million yuan = US$15.66 million).
A preliminary version was shown to the public for the first time this week at the ongoing World Robot Exhibition in Beijing. It is about the size of a typical office cubicle.
They work for the cryptically named 502 Institute at the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
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Satellites need fuel even to stay in orbit. Without this, they either plunge back down to earth or become space debris.