Augmented Reality (AR) has plenty of applications that could be helpful in space missions. Amongst others, AR could be used as a visualisation tool for inspections and, ultimately, to guide repair activities. AR inspections include any geometrical check and external or internal defect monitoring. Moreover, non-destructive techniques could also be used through AR, such as, visual inspection, ultrasonic testing, X-ray testing or thermography.
AR could also be used to help inspect and repair hardware on Mars from a remote location, for example from Earth. An expert would be connected remotely to the AR device and guide the user repairing the hardware with 3D visual features. Moreover, AR is already proven to be useful in many training applications. An AR tool could train not only astronauts that are already on another planet but also new crew members before going on missions.
The aim of this project is to identify areas where AR could be beneficial, including routinary tasks, maintenance and repair activities. For that, WoMars will record every task performed during the Nerio I mission, and will classify the tasks according to their repetitiveness and degree of difficulty. Then, WoMars will assess the possible benefits of AR as reduction in time or difficulty. After the Nerio I mission, WoMars plans to design the structure of an AR tool that could address some of the identified applications at MDRS. Ultimately, WoMars plans to develop a prototype to test its benefits in future missions.