NASA has given us a closer look at one of the tools – a set of robotic eyes – that could be used for satellite servicing in the future. Dubbed VIPIR (the Visual Inspection Poseable Invertebrate Robot) consists of an articulating borescope and a second motorised, zoom-lens camera. The device would help mission operators inspect satellites for damage and carry out repairs guided from afar. VIPIR has flexible tube that can extend to 86 centimetres and navigate a miniaturised camera through tight openings down to 2.5 centimetres in diameter. The tip of the tube to rotate up to 90 degrees in four opposing directions.
