The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has long been at the forefront of space exploration, continually advancing technologies to enhance mission success and safety. A pivotal component of this advancement is the development and integration of software, robotics, and space systems services. These services are essential for the design, testing, and operation of intelligent systems, robotic systems, and real-time simulation systems that facilitate human exploration and development of space. ([nasa.gov](

NASA's Software, Robotics, and Simulation Division

Established in 1990, NASA's Software, Robotics, and Simulation Division (ER) is responsible for the design, development, testing, and operations of intelligent systems, robotic systems, and real-time simulation systems that support human spaceflight. The division's mission is to enable the human exploration of space by developing and applying system technologies for automation, robotics, flight software, simulation, graphics, and exercise equipment. ([nasa.gov](

Key Areas of Focus

The division's work encompasses several critical areas:

  • Software Development and Testing: The Spacecraft Software Engineering Team develops flight and ground software for various space vehicles and assets, ensuring mission-critical embedded software meets the highest standards. ([nasa.gov](
  • Robotics: JSC provides research, engineering, development, integration, and testing of robotic hardware and software technologies for applications in support of human spaceflight. This includes the development of highly dexterous manipulators and intelligent robotics for high-value functionality. ([nasa.gov](
  • Simulation and Graphics: The division develops real-time simulation systems and graphics to support mission planning, training, and operations, ensuring that crew members are well-prepared for various scenarios.
  • Human Health and Performance: Through the HumanWorks Lab, JSC develops technologies to address human health and performance gaps, including wearable robotics for assistance, exercise, and rehabilitation. ([nasa.gov](

Collaborative Engineering and Process Automation

NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) has a longstanding commitment to advancing collaborative engineering and process automation. In December 2012, JSC issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking potential sources for software, robotics, and space systems services in areas such as advanced collaborative engineering, process automation, and avionics flight software. This initiative aimed to enhance the development of intelligent systems and engineering analysis to support missions like the International Space Station (ISS), Multipurpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV), and projects under the Advanced Exploration Systems (AES) program. ([](

Virtual Engineering & Spacecraft Flight Applications (VESFA)

In line with its commitment to innovation, JSC has been working on the Virtual Engineering & Spacecraft Flight Applications (VESFA) program, a follow-on contract to the Simulation and Software Technology (SST) III. This program focuses on the development and application of system technologies for automation, robotics, flight software, simulation, graphics, and exercise equipment. The VESFA program aims to enhance the capability, operability, reliability, safety, and lifecycle costs of current and future spacecraft and surface systems. ([nasa.gov](

Engaging with NASA's Software and Robotics Initiatives

Organizations interested in collaborating with NASA on software and robotics initiatives can engage through various channels. NASA encourages partnerships with industry leaders, academic institutions, and small businesses to leverage its expertise in robotics and space systems. The Dexterous Robotics Team (DRT) at JSC, for example, specializes in designing custom electronics, actuators, mechanisms, and fixtures, and collaborates closely with other government agencies, academic institutions, and commercial industry partners. ([nasa.gov](

For those seeking to submit service inquiries or explore partnership opportunities, NASA provides a Service Inquiry Form. This form allows potential collaborators to express interest and outline their capabilities in relation to NASA's needs. ([nasa.gov](

Conclusion

NASA's Software, Robotics, and Simulation Division plays a crucial role in advancing the technologies that underpin human space exploration. Through its focus on software development, robotics, simulation, and human health and performance, the division continues to drive innovation and excellence in space systems. Collaborative efforts with external partners further enhance NASA's capabilities, ensuring the success and safety of future missions.

Sources

  • NASA — Software, Robotics, and Simulation Division —
  • NASA — Software & Autonomous Subsystems —
  • NASA — Robotics —
  • NASA — Virtual Engineering & Spacecraft Flight Applications (VESFA) —
  • NASA — Service Inquiry Form —