AI may enhance, but won't replace astronauts soon

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams returned safely on March 18 after a nine-month mission in space. Their trip was supposed to last just eight days but extended due to technical issues. This situation prompts discussions about possibly using AI robots for future space exploration instead of human astronauts. Space travel poses many risks to human health. Astronauts often face muscle loss, weakened bones, and exposure to harmful radiation during long stays in space. These effects can be permanent. Robots, powered by AI, do not suffer from these issues and can function without food, sleep, or gravity. This makes them suitable for extended missions in space. However, AI robots are not ready to completely replace human astronauts just yet. Current AI systems need strong computing power, which can lead to delays in decision-making when operating in space. If instructions have to travel millions of miles, the time taken could be dangerous. Additionally, AI requires a lot of energy, which is limited in space missions. Instead of eliminating human astronauts, the focus is on creating better cooperation between humans and AI. The crew of China's Shenzhou 19 has begun testing an AI robot to assist astronauts. This robot is designed to improve interaction between humans and machines, making space missions smoother. Research includes how astronauts can work with robots, how robots react to tasks, and improving communication between them. The goal is for AI robots to help with tasks like inspections and managing resources. This collaboration could make space missions more efficient while keeping astronauts safe.