Case Study: NASA achieves wireless Robonaut mobility and increased astronaut productivity with Digi International's ConnectCore Wi‑i.MX53

Digi Wireless Module Transforms NASA Robot Into Productive Member of Space Station Crew

Digi International supplied its ConnectCore Wi‑i.MX53 wireless module to help NASA free Robonaut 2 from power-and-control tethers aboard the ISS. Astronauts were spending valuable crew time on routine, time‑consuming tasks (like multi‑reading air quality tests) that a mobile, untethered robot could perform, but R2 needed reliable wireless connectivity and space‑qualified hardware to move and operate autonomously.

Digi’s module was rigorously tested for temperature, vibration and shock and delivered with a certificate of conformity, enabling Wi‑Fi control and video from Robonaut’s cameras, SD data logging, and torso‑to‑backpack communications. The wireless upgrade lets R2 perform housekeeping and air monitoring independently, allows remote control from the station or Mission Control, saves hours of astronaut time, and sets the stage for future EVA support.

NASA