Artificial Intelligence Research and Applications at the NASA Johnson Space Center

Mission Planning and Analysis Division Technology Development and Applications Branch The Technology Development and Applications Branch of the Space Operations Directorate has the following functional responsibilities: (1) the evaluation, assessment, and implementation of new technology from NASA research centers, industries and universities relative to JSC space operation applications; (2) development of in-house capabilities for assessment and implementation of new technologies; and (3) prototype development and demonstrations of new technologies. Specific applications of artificial intelligence include robotic simulations, interactive graphics, information communication, man-machine interface, expert systems, automated software development, intelligent computer-aided instruction, intelligent computeraided engineering, expert system builders, parallel processing, and software verification and validation. Robotic Systems Development This project will develop a robotic software test bed that integrates artificial intelligence and graphics system technologies for dynamic system simulations. Specific objectives are (1) to develop a clearer understanding of the computing, communications, and control capabilities needed for coordinated robotic manipulation of objects in a spacebased environment; (2) to develop an understanding of tradeoffs and the complementary relationships between graphic simulation modules and empirical test-bed modules with respect to robotic subsystem design, development, and proof-of-concept demonstrations; (3) to identify requirements for integrating coordinated intelligent robotic units with the evolutionary space station network of computing systems, communications and control systems, and common service and hardware-software elements; and (4) to identify short-and long-term technology needs. In the process, technical issues such as perception, automated aids for problem solving, cognition and learn-Kathleen Healey is Special Assistant at the Simulation and Avionics Integration Division, Research and Engineering Directorate, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas 77058.