The Dextre is a Industrial Arm developed by MDA (Canada), launched 2008. Key specifications: arm class ultra heavy, payload 600 kg, reach 3500 mm, repeatability ±2 mm.
RoboScore
Adequate evidence
No confirmed deployment on record — this score reflects the rest of the record, not verified adoption.
4 of 9 signals present
Recomputed nightly from public data. Missing data is skipped, never zero-filled — and rankings are never for sale.
Weighted factors
average of the 4 scored · blanks don't count
Not in the Industrial Arm standing. The standings cover robots first sold from 2020 onward, and this one launched in 2008. Its Robo Score above is unaffected — the score is the evidence, the standing is only who it is listed against.
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Overview
Dextre, also known as the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM), is a two-armed robot, or telemanipulator, which is part of the Mobile Servicing System on the International Space Station (ISS), and does repairs that would otherwise require astronauts to do spacewalks. It was launched on March 11, 2008, on the mission STS-123. Dextre is designed to handle and complete orbital replacement units, making it capable of carrying spares and conducting complex tasks in orbit.
Flagship features
- Dextre is a 15-axis robotic arm system (two 7-joint arms plus a waist rotation joint) for space-based operations
- It is mounted on the Mobile Servicing System (MSS) on the International Space Station, created by the Canadian Space Agency
- Payload capacity is 600 kg per arm (at the end of the arm), though microgravity reduces the effective mechanical load
- The robot's primary role is external station maintenance, inspection, and experimental satellite refuelling
- It uses a 'force-moment sensor' at the end effector for fine manipulation
- Dextre was launched in 2008 on the Space Shuttle Endeavour (STS-123)
Buyer decision signals
Viability
Robotic Refueling Mission (RRM) next phase announced
Price
Published figures are build cost or program budget, not a purchase price
Specifications
Category: Industrial Arm- Arm class
- ultra heavy
- Payload
- 600 kg
- Reach
- 3500 mm
- Repeatability
- ±2 mm
- Weight
- 1660 kg
- Industries
- aerospace
Company profile
- Founded
- 1969
Detailed specifications
What it is built for2
- Applications
- Maintaining the International Space Station (ISS),Testing new robotic technology,Installing and replacing small equipment like cameras or batteries,Replacing defective components in electrical systems,Testing new tools and robotics techniques
- Sub Category
- space manipulator
Size & capacity1
- Height Mm
- 3700
Movement & precision2
- Dof Per Arm
- 7
- Max Speed M S
- 0.1
Controls & integration1
- Compatible Vision
- true
Buying & support2
- Datasheet Url
- View Link
- Deployment Count
- 1
Who runs it· deployment evidence
No deployment evidence on file
A deployment is recorded when a public source names the customer, or the maker confirms it. Nothing here counts against this robot.
4 other robots in this category have one.
Add a deployment →Company milestones
- Jan 2013PartnershipRobotic Refueling Mission (RRM) next phase announced
- 2025MilestonePlanned upgrade: Dextre Deployable Vision System
- 2024MilestoneRebrand to MDA Space
- 2008LaunchDextre launched on Space Shuttle Endeavour
- 2008DeploymentDextre moved atop Destiny Laboratory Module on ISS
- 1981LaunchCanadarm debut
- 1969MilestoneFounded in Vancouver
- —MilestoneDon Pettit posts Dextre timelapse video on X
Frequently asked questions
- Who makes the Dextre?
- The Dextre is developed by MDA, based in Canada.
- What type of robot is the Dextre?
- The Dextre is a Industrial Arm made by MDA.
- How much does the Dextre cost?
- Pricing for the Dextre is not publicly listed — contact MDA for a quote.
- When was the Dextre launched?
- The Dextre was launched in 2008.
- What are the key specifications of the Dextre?
- Key specifications of the Dextre: arm class ultra heavy, payload 600 kg, reach 3500 mm, repeatability ±2 mm, weight 1660 kg.
Reviews for Dextre
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