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Mission STS-132

Dextre gets a new tool storage platform

On May 17, spacewalkers Garrett Reisman and Stephen Bowen fitted Dextre with a new storage platform that will allow the Canadian-built robot to keep its "hands" free while carrying multiple Space Station components.

Built by MDA of Brampton, Ontario, under contract with NASA, the three-sided platform will allow the Space Station's robotic handyman to handle more than one replacement part at a time by giving the robot a place to put down tools or spare parts while working (unlike home repairs in your garage, any parts not anchored down would float away in space!). The platform is also equipped with electrical connections to keep sensitive electronics warm in the deep cold of space.

Dextre is currently being put through its paces on the International Space Station in a process known as its commissioning. The most sophisticated space robot ever built, Dextre will perform its final exam in the summer of 2010, when it exercises its delicate touch by changing two critical power switches on board the Station. After this crucial last task, Dextre will be officially ready to report for duty.

Astronaut Garrett Reisman took this self-portrait on May 17, 2010, while riding on the end of Canadarm2 during the first of three scheduled spacewalks during mission STS-132. If you look closely at the reflection of the Space Station in his visor, you will see the almost fully extended Canadarm2, as well as Dextre (just slightly left of centre above the reflection of his camera lens). So, in addition to Reisman's own human arms, plus the Japanese robotic arm (far left of centre), the correct answer is 6. (Photo: NASA)