WASHINGTON — Two special robots called 'Astrobees' will be sent to space to help astronauts carry out chores and experiments on board the International Space Station, according to NASA.

Astrobees are cube-shaped robots that measure 1 square-foot. They are equipped with cameras, a touchscreen, speakers, a microphone and a mechanical arm. The Astrobees also come with special sensors used for navigation, crew monitoring, sampling, logistics, among other tasks.

The robots are powered by onboard batteries and move around using a fan-based propulsion system. They can be controlled by NASA flight controllers in Houston and also have an automated mode.

When the Astrobees' batteries begin to run low, they will automatically fly to a docking system in the ISS to recharge.

The two Astrobees will be launched to space from the Wallops Flight Facility in Eastern Virginia at the end of this month.