NASA scientists have successfully field-tested an artificial-intelligence system designed to allow multiple robots to work together as an autonomous scientific team. The technology could eventually help spacecraft and robotic explorers conduct scientific investigations with much less dependence on real-time instructions from Earth.

The field test involved a fleet of three robots operating together in Virginia. A drone first surveyed the environment and identified areas that could be scientifically interesting. The system then assessed available robotic resources, potential scientific value and operational risks before deciding which robot should investigate further.

The robots were designed to perform different tasks. The drone could survey the area from above, one rover used lidar to map its surroundings and navigate obstacles, while another rover was equipped with a robotic arm capable of collecting samples.

One important capability demonstrated during the test was the system’s ability to change its priorities when new information appeared. When the drone discovered another potentially interesting location, the robotic team could evaluate that opportunity without simply abandoning its original scientific objective.

NASA’s Adaptive Sensing Technology for Responsive Autonomy (ASTRA) project is developing this capability for situations where communication with Earth is difficult or delayed. Such technology could be particularly useful on missions exploring distant parts of the Solar System, as well as challenging environments on the Moon and Mars.

The system is also designed to consider factors beyond simple navigation. It can evaluate the distance and capabilities of individual robots, the scientific value of a potential discovery and the risks associated with a particular task.

NASA says the ultimate goal is to create robotic systems that can function as a trustworthy extension of human scientific teams, allowing them to make appropriate decisions when direct instructions from Earth are unavailable.

The latest field test represents an important step toward more autonomous planetary exploration, although the technology is still being developed and tested on Earth before potential use in future space missions.