An arm built for orbit
Canadarm2 is a 17-metre robotic arm on the International Space Station. Built by MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates in Brampton, Ontario, it launched in 2001. Its work includes maintenance and moving equipment, supplies and astronauts.
Two ends, one useful design
Both ends have a Latching End Effector: a gripping mechanism that can hold an object or anchor the arm to the station. By changing its anchor point, Canadarm2 can move end-over-end between fixtures that provide power, data and video connections.
Designed to stay in service
The arm was designed with components that can be replaced in orbit. It can be operated by astronauts aboard the station or by teams on the ground. These design choices are central to understanding how the system is maintained without returning it to Earth.
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