The Canadarm, officially known as the Shuttle Remote Manipulator System (SRMS), is a robotic arm designed for the Space Shuttle Program. Here are detailed insights into its history, functionality, and significance:
History
Functionality
- Capabilities: The Canadarm could perform various tasks like:
- Deploying and retrieving satellites.
- Handling cargo in the shuttle's payload bay.
- Assisting in Extravehicular Activities (EVAs) or spacewalks.
- Performing inspection and repair operations.
- Technical Specifications:
- Length: 15.2 meters (50 feet).
- Weight: 410 kg (900 lbs).
- Reach: Capable of extending 15.2 meters from the shuttle, or 18.3 meters with the End Effector (EE) extended.
- Payload: Could handle up to 266,000 kg (293 US tons).
- Control: Operated by astronauts from inside the shuttle, using a handheld Computerized Manipulator Control System (CMCS).
Significance
- The Canadarm played a crucial role in the success of the Space Shuttle Program, contributing to numerous missions including:
- Its success led to the development of subsequent robotic arms like the Canadarm2 for the ISS and the Dextre, a two-armed robot designed for fine manipulation tasks.
Retirement
- The Canadarm was retired along with the Space Shuttle Program in 2011. Each shuttle was equipped with one Canadarm, which were then distributed to various institutions and museums for preservation and display.
Sources
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