Japanese scientists are developing a humanoid robot designed to converse with astronauts to keep them company aboard the International Space Station.

The 13-inch robot weighs around 2.2lbs and will be able to recognise Wakata's facial features. Kibo is scheduled to be completed by next summer and will be sent to the orbiting ISS shortly before astronaut Koichi Wakata arrives, according to officials of the Kibo Robot Project.

It will then have the ability to communicate with the astronaut in Japanese and take photographs during their stay on the space station. It will be able to post messages on Twitter and other social media sites, take pictures within the Kibo research module on the ISS, Japan's contribution to the international project, and of the Earth from outer space.

After Wakata has completed his six-month stay aboard the ISS, the robot will stay behind to send messages to schools in Japan and around the world... waiting for the next call to duty.