NASA is developing a new program to build mechanical robot astronauts called Robonauts, some of which may be used to repair the Hubble Space Telescope. Some scientists argue that robots are better explorers than people.

However, this year marked the 40th anniversary of man landing on a moon, both a scientific and cultural victory that would not have had the same impact if it was accomplished by robots.

This begs the question: Is it better to send robots in the first place? Join Chris McKay and Kanna Rajan as they discuss the shift towards robotic exploration of extreme environments.

Speakers:
Chris McKay, Planetary Scientist, NASA-Ames Research Center
Kanna Rajan, Principal Researcher for Autonomy, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute

About Wonderfest Dialogues:
Wonderfest dialogues between pairs of researchers reveal the human/emotional side of science, and they entrust the listener with the responsibility of making up his/her own mind. They are divided into 3 equal segments: 30 minutes of introductory background remarks, 30 minutes of “debate,” and then 30 minutes of questions from the audience. High school science faculty serve as discussion moderators, and student volunteers offer assistance at each venue.