Gallery: GM, NASA develop super worker

NASA and General Motors introduced Robonaut2 – or R2 for short - is faster, more dexterous and more technologically advanced than its predecessors and a step closer toward becoming your co-worker in the aerospace or automotive industries. R2 is able to use its hands to do work beyond the scope of previously introduced humanoid robots according to NASA. For more read Larry Dignan's blog.

Credit: NASA

The robots are being developed to work side-by-side with humans and use the same tools.

Credit: NASA

Chris Ihrke, senior project engineer for General Motors, works with the new dexterous humanoid robot developed by NASA and General Motors at Johnson Space Center.

Credit: NASA

R2 shows off its strength by being able to lift a 20 pound weight (about four times heavier than what other dexterous robots can handle).

Credit: NASA

It can also lift the 20-pound weight away from its body.

Credit: NASA

R2's primary function is to work side-by-side with people on Earth and in space. It can be used in places that are considered too dangerous for its human co-workers.

Credit: NASA

Chris Ihrke puts R2 through the tests.

Credit: NASA