Following the successful usage of Google's One and Nexus S in space, the company is back in the space probing scene touting its latest technology dubbed as Project Tango. Packed with 3D sensors for enhanced tracking and mapping, Google's Project Tango was chosen by NASA for an important role in its Synchronized Position Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental Satellite program (SPHERES). With the help of these smartphones, astronauts may delegate some of their assignments, which sometimes include completing high risk extra-vehicular activities (EVA).
The SPHERES program, which was introduced in 2006, involves robots about the size of a soccer ball. Propelled by CO2 blasts, these robots can hover slowly in space. Though their movements are limited and precise, these robots will soon be able to detect and react to their environment with the help of Google's Project Tango.
Chris Provencher, project manager of SPHERES, wanted their program to be enhanced with communications and camera equipment, as well as more accurate sensors and more efficient processing. This train of thought led him to the idea of using smartphones in the space station.
In the beginning, the smartphones were modified using additional batteries and anti-shatter displays. They were attached to a SPHERES satellite's side using Velcro. As a result, the robots gained impressive sensing and visual capacities. To improve the robots' mobility, the phones were split open to allow the touchscreen and sensors to face outwards. The batteries used in the program are also space-tested and plastic connectors are used instead of the Velcro.
The Project Tango handsets are equipped with infrared depth sensors and motion-tracking cameras, which are similar to the Kinect camera found in Microsoft's Xbox. By using 3D maps and sensors, the SPHERES can easily navigate inside the space station and detect any sharp angles along the way.
Project Tango's 3D technology will soon be able to help users create intricately detailed 3D models of their surroundings. On the other hand, gamers can also enjoy enhanced playing augmented reality games.
On July 11, Project Tango units will be launched into orbit via a cargo spacecraft, allowing smartphone-packed robots to assume the role of an astronaut's "brains and eyes." Designed with a distinctively robust navigation system, the robots are said to be ready for a wide variety of tasks.
