Robot builds structure in space without astronauts for 1st time in demo

Researchers at Caltech have demonstrated a robot that can autonomously build structures in space without astronauts for the first time. The Autonomous In-Space Tensioned Reflector Assembly (ASTRA) robot assembled a third section of a truss structure in orbit as part of the project. The technology could enable the construction of giant space telescopes, antennas and solar arrays, researchers said.