NASA is turning to robotics to help their astronauts while in space.  NASA scientists have developed a new dexterous humanoid robot which can work side by side with humans

Robonaut2, or R2, is the next generation dexterous robot that uses the same tools as humans, allowing it to work safely along with people, a necessity both on earth and in space. The machines are faster and can use their hands to do work beyond the scope of prior humanoid machines.

R2, the next iteration of Robonaut, could assist astronauts during hazardous space missions using leading edge control, sensor and vision technologies.

Working side by side with humans, or going where the risks are too great for people, machines like Robonaut will expand our capability for construction and discovery.

According to NASA, the robots were developed with General Motors through a Space Act Agreement to accelerate development of the next generation of robots and related technologies.