Robots in space

The Hubble space telescope's life may be prolonged by robots.

It is too dangerous for astronauts to carry out repairs on the telescope so NASA propose to send a robot to do it instead.

If the go-ahead is given, the mission could take place in 2007.

The main aim of the mission will be to install a "de-orbiting module" which will allow the telescope to be brought to Earth in a controlled crash.