The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has created its very own space robot ‘Vyom Mitra’! The space robot is a ‘half-humanoid’, as it has no legs. It has been created by IISC in collaboration with ISRO and is programmed to behave and respond to situations just like humans.
The robot can monitor biological parameters, perform life support operations, recognise astronauts and converse with them. ‘Vyom Mitra’ will also assist ISRO in analysing the problems with the capsule and will stay in the outer space for further research. It will also respond to directions from the master control facility. The humanoid has been created for ISRO’s Gagan Yaan Mission.
The name Vyom Mitra translates from the Sanskrit language which means ‘friend in space’.
The robot was the centre of attraction at the inaugural session of the “Human Spaceflight and Exploration – Present Challenges and Future Trends”.
This talking robot was introduced to the world at an event held in Bengaluru and makes for an intriguing subject. The robot took everyone by surprise when she introduced herself to the audience. “Hello everyone. I am Vyom Mitra, the prototype of the half-humanoid, been made for the first unmanned Gagan Yaan mission,” the robot said.
Explaining about the role in the mission, she said, “I can monitor through module parameters, alert you and perform life support operations. I can perform activities like switch panel operations…”
The robot said she can also be a companion and converse with the astronauts, recognise them and can also respond to their queries.
Union Minister of State for Department of Space and Atomic Energy Dr. Jitendra Singh too shared a video of the humanoid on Twitter and wrote, “In the run up to the first Human Space Mission by India at ISRO…’Vyom Mitra’, the humanoid for #Gagan Yaan unveiled. This prototype of humanoid will go as trial before Gagan Yaan goes with astronauts.”
Interestingly, Vyom Mitra may be the only female repping the gender on board since all the other astronauts selected happen to be men. The time has come when robots are ready to replace humans in every sphere of life.
