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Many hands make light work 
As a robotic system, the MSS will play a key role in Space Station assembly and maintenance, moving equipment and supplies around the Station and supporting astronauts in their work. The Canadarm is the first part of the MSS system to be assembled on Mission STS-100. Stretching over 17 m, it has seven motorised joints and is capable of handling large payloads and assisting with docking the Space Shuttle. Behind the scenes ESA's own 'intelligent' European Robotic Arm (ERA) is also quietly flexing its muscles to help with future construction and everyday manoeuvres aboard the Station. Although smaller than Canada's robotic arm, the ERA is still an impressive 11.3 m long and weighs some 630 kg - a large robot by any standards. Developed in conjunction with the Russian Space Agency, Rosaviakosmos (RAKA), ERA is expected to arrive at the Station to help with the on-orbit assembly of the Russian Science Power Platform and for external servicing of the Russian elements on the Station.
The ERA is operable from inside or outside and will be able to manoeuvre equipment weighing up to 8000 kg. Amongst its first tasks will be installation of the solar arrays for the Science and Power Platform.
Guidoni's mission highlights website (Based on the ESA STS-100 Newspaper by ESA Publications) Last update: 27 August 2001
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