He developed the Kinect-equipped nano satellite

Researchers at the University of Surrey, UK, are preparing a project to develop micro-satellites equipped with Microsoft's Kinect motion sensor.

This project is called STRaND-2 (Surrey Training, Research, and Nanosatellite Demonstrator), which consists of two nanostructures measuring only about 30 centimeters. These two satellites will be assembled once they have been launched into orbit. On each one is a Kinect sensor that helps the satellite scan and recognize the surrounding environment for connection. The research team has not yet given specific dates for the deployment of these small satellites.

The researchers describe them as "intelligent spatial blocks in space" that can be used to build larger complexes once they have entered the universe. They can be configured and repositioned to suit different circumstances and perform multiple functions, from additional propulsion to supply of reserve power to the spacecraft. space. All transplant, change, and reconstruction work is done in space, not in the earth, edited and then re-launched.

"Once we launch nano satellites that can be paired together at cheap rates, their capabilities are endless," said Chris Bridges, chief executive of the project. He said that this type of coupling has never been applied to small spacecraft and equipment that has only been used on large architectures such as the ISS space station, Mir station and the Apollo project. Scientists at the University of Surrey have drawn inspiration from the MIT University experiment of attaching Kinect sensors to self propelled helicopters.