Special issue on Space Robotics

A special issue of the IEEE Robotics and Automation Magazine

Introduction

We are calling for the submission of short (8 or fewer pages) papers on space robotics for a
special edition of Robotics and Automation Magazine. Both space robotics sub-fields of
planetary rovers and orbital robotics are requested. Papers should address recent advances in the
field, motivation, and related work.

Scope, description and more information

Papers in planetary rovers might present recent results from Mars surface operations, future
surface and aerial mission designs, as well as related results from terrestrial field tests. Topics
to be addressed include autonomous navigation and mobility in natural environments,
autonomous manipulation for instrument placement and sample acquisition, autonomous
science data processing, system design and architecture, and operations interface design and
use. Core technologies include natural terrain sensing, novel mobility system designs,
computation-restricted software performance, power-restricted system performance, and
telemetry-restricted remote commanding. While the current target of much research is Mars and
Moon exploration, discussion of application to other planetary bodies is desirable.
Papers in orbital robotics may illuminate issues and potential solutions to the unique problems
of robots in the zero-gravity, formation flying and rendezvous, docking maneuvers and forces,
vacuum, and radiation environment of space. Associated topics include human-robot interfaces,
robot-robot cooperation, zero-gravity locomotion, free flier robot handling, attitude control, and
navigation, and robotic inspection and repair of space vehicles.

To submit a paper, go here

Important dates
Call for papers	February 05, 2009
Deadline for paper submission	April 15, 2009 (extended)
First review	August 01, 2009
Final review	September 01, 2009
Publication	December 2009