USC's Astrobee platform gets commercial support from Arkisys

Robots that float, watch, and help keep a spaceship running are no longer science fiction. NASA’s Astrobee robots glide through the International Space Station using quiet fan thrusters, cameras, and smart software to handle chores that do not need a human touch. https://lnkd.in/gHk6KKCW

🤖 What If Space Robots Had Tentacles Instead of Claws? 🌌 When we think of future space tech, we usually picture shiny metal robots with rigid arms. But what if the next generation of machines looked more like octopuses than astronauts? 🐙 Researchers are now developing soft robotic hands inspired by octopus tentacles — capable of bending, gripping, and adapting their shape with incredible precision. These aren’t just visually fascinating; they represent a leap in how we think about robotics and artificial intelligence working together in extreme environments. Here’s why this innovation matters 👇 1️⃣ Biomimicry Meets Engineering — Nature has already perfected millions of years of design. By studying the structure and motion of octopus tentacles, scientists can create flexible grippers that move gracefully and safely — no sharp metal, just adaptive intelligence. 2️⃣ Precision Without Pressure — Unlike mechanical claws, these soft robotic arms can gently handle fragile materials — from fruit and surgical tools to delicate space instruments — making them ideal for microgravity environments. 3️⃣ NASA’s Next-Gen Helpers — Imagine astronauts in orbit assisted by AI-driven soft robots that can repair satellites, adjust equipment, or collect samples — all without human risk or damage. This isn’t sci-fi anymore; it’s space-ready innovation. 4️⃣ AI + Soft Robotics = The Future of Exploration — Artificial intelligence powers these systems to sense touch, learn movement, and adapt on the go. Together, they redefine what “machine intelligence” looks like in the real world. 5️⃣ A Lesson for Innovators — The best ideas often come from nature itself. Design inspired by biology isn’t just sustainable — it’s smart. Creativity thrives when we blend science, observation, and empathy into technology. This is how biomimicry is shaping the next era of exploration — soft, adaptable, and deeply intelligent. 🚀 Follow 👉 AI news for more breakthroughs in AI, robotics, and futuristic innovations redefining how we explore our world — and beyond. 🌍✨ #AI #NASA #SpaceTech #Innovation #Biomimicry #Robotics #SoftRobotics #FutureTechnology #AstroEngineering #Futurism #AInews

Towards Open-Source and Modular Space Systems with ATMOS. ABSTRACT:" In the near future, autonomous space systems will compose many of the deployed spacecraft. Their tasks will involve autonomous rendezvous and proximity operations with large structures, such as inspections, assembly, and maintenance of orbiting space stations, as well as human-assistance tasks over shared workspaces. To promote replicable and reliable scientific results for autonomous control of spacecraft, we present the design of a space robotics laboratory based on open-source and modular software and hardware. The simulation software provides a software-in-the-loop architecture that seamlessly transfers simulated results to the hardware. Our results provide an insight into such a system, including comparisons of hardware and software results, as well as control and planning methodologies for controlling free-flying platforms. " Pedro Roque1 , Sujet Phodapol1 , Elias Krantz2 , Jaeyoung Lim3 , Joris Verhagen4 , Frank J. Jiang1 , David Dorner ¨ 2 , Huina Mao2 , Gunnar Tibert2 , Roland Siegwart3 , Ivan Stenius2 , Jana Tumova4 , Christer Fuglesang2 , and Dimos V. Dimarogonas1 1 Division of Decision and Control Systems, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden. 2 School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden. 3 Autonomous Systems Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Z ¨ urich, Switzerland. ¨ 4 Division of Robotics, Perception and Learning, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden. INDEX TERMS Multi-Robot Systems, Orbital Robotics Next space space industry ISM ISAM Software and Hardware Releases Software and hardware contributions can be found in: 1. PX4Space: https://lnkd.in/egy-MNNy 2. QGroundControl for PX4Space: https://lnkd.in/ein66hT7 3. ATMOS platform: https://atmos.discower.io link version IEEE publication november 2025 in comment

How could humans survive on the Moon? One way would be to extract oxygen from dust and broken rock. A team from CRADLE – the robotics research centre set up by Amentum UK and International and The University of Manchester – has just taken part in the European Space Agency - ESA’s Space Resources Challenge to develop technologies for doing exactly that. To find out more 👉 https://lnkd.in/gtGbf3Ny

Space exploration The new frontier with KBR. In January 2024, KBR and a team from NASA Ames Research Center designed and built a robot system that can autonomously build structures using specially designed lattice blocks. The robot could be used to autonomously build shelters for astronauts before they land on various planets. https://lnkd.in/eSp9kgh3 “KBR was created in 1998 when M.W. Kellogg merged with Halliburton's construction subsidiary, Brown & Root, to form Kellogg Brown & Root. In 2006, the company separated from Halliburton and completed an initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange.” https://lnkd.in/egbtBVag.

🌟 Keynote Spotlight: The Leaders Defining Space Robotics at iSpaRo 2025 🚀 The full iSpaRo program is published, and it's time to highlight the three visionaries who will be setting the global agenda for the next decade of space robotics! 🇪🇺 Dr. James Carpenter (European Space Agency - ESA) Title: Science and Robots on a 2040s Moon Focus: Dr. Carpenter presents a forward-looking vision on how science and robotics will converge to establish infrastructure and enable unprecedented scientific discovery on the Moon by the 2040s. His insights are crucial for understanding ESA’s long-term strategy for accessing and using lunar resources. When: Monday, December 1, 14:00 – 15:00 🇺🇸 Dr. Glen Henshaw (U.S. Naval Research Laboratory) Title: Why is the US Navy doing Space Robotics? Focus: As the lead roboticist for DARPA’s RSGS program, Dr. Henshaw will detail NRL’s history and future work in robotic satellite servicing, in-space assembly, and orbital debris remediation. He will specifically discuss research using reinforcement learning and tactile sensing to make future space robots more capable and cost-effective. When: Tuesday, December 2, 09:00 – 10:00 🇯🇵 Dr. Suguru Saito (Cabinet Office, Government of Japan) Title: Japan's Space Policy Overview: Focusing on Trends in Lunar Development Focus: Dr. Saito offers a deep dive into the policy and regulatory landscape driving Japan's momentum, including highlights from the 5th Basic Plan on Space Policy and the study on the "Architecture for Lunar Activities." This is essential for anyone tracking the governmental and commercial direction of lunar development. When: Wednesday, December 3, 09:00 – 10:00 🔗Details available at: https://lnkd.in/g9HXQwpi ✅If you plan to attend the conference, don't forget to register by Nov. 16th : https://lnkd.in/dZFma6_M #Keynote #iSpaRo #SpaceRobotics

Cosmic Robotics has secured a $149,521 award from the NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration through the Small Business Innovation Research Program Phase I. The contract is administered by the NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration subagency, supporting early-stage research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences. This Phase I action is designed to explore the feasibility of new concepts and technologies. The project, "SBIR I Cosmic-XT: A Truss-Traversing General-Purpose Outfitting Robot," focuses on developing a robotic system capable of traversing truss structures and performing outfitting tasks in space environments. This innovation addresses the technical challenge of automating assembly and maintenance operations in orbit, which are critical for the construction and upkeep of large space structures. By enabling robots to navigate and work on trusses, the project aims to reduce the need for human extravehicular activity, enhance safety, and increase mission efficiency. The research is categorized as administrative expenses for R&D, emphasizing its foundational role in advancing space robotics. The contract performance period starts on September 29, 2025, and ends on March 27, 2026, covering approximately 0.42 years. The action date is September 23, 2025, and the recipient, Cosmic Robotics, is based in San Francisco, California. This definitive contract highlights NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration's ongoing investment in innovative robotic technologies for future space missions.

🐙 Soft Robotics Meets Space Tech What if the future of space exploration looked more like an octopus than a robot? Engineers are developing flexible, tentacle-inspired robotic arms that can gently grip fragile objects perfect for handling tools, repairing satellites, or assisting astronauts in zero gravity. Biology is quietly rewriting the rules of robotics one soft tentacle at a time. Join our global community, share your expertise, and explore partnership opportunities. 👉 www.ctorobotics.com Stay updated with the latest insights on #Robotics, #AI, #Automation, and #SmartManufacturing. 🚀 👉 https://lnkd.in/drdRjYKJ Let’s connect and continue the conversation on the future of #Robotics, #AI and #Automation! Follow Onur Sezgin, CTO ROBOTICS Media,Robomax Robot and Automation Systems, Ara Robotik to join the community of robot enthusiasts. Check out the amazing content from my talented friends who share insights on similar topics: Ahmet Ömer Yılmaz Muhammet Furkan Bolakar RoboSapienss Milos Kucera Adrian Stelmach Florian Palatini Eduardo BANZATO Amir Sanatkar Amine BOUDER Ulrich Moeller 🤖 🤖 Luis L. Christine Raibaldi Marcus Scholle Philipp Kozin, PhD, MBA Ismail Durgun (Assoc. Prof.) Alexey Navolokin ⚠️ This video is shared for educational and informational purposes only. It does not contain aany sponsored deals, advertising, or commercial intent. Credit to the original creator. All rights belong to the respective brand. If you are the owner and wish to have it removed or credited differently, please contact us. #Robotics #SpaceTech #Innovation #SoftRobotics #NASA #AI #Engineering

European Space Agency - ESA is pushing the boundaries of space robotics and orbital servicing thanks to its unique ground facilities in the Netherlands: the Orbital Robotics Lab (ORL) and the famous “flat floor” testing environments at ESTEC. These resources offer a vital analog for satellite operations in microgravity, enabling the next generation of autonomous rendezvous, docking, debris capture, and repair technology to be validated right here on Earth. At the heart of the ORL is an ultra-flat, low-friction floor—one of the flattest in Europe—where robots and floating platforms using air bearings simulate free-floating space maneuvers in two dimensions. These tests help teams master the fine details of orbital rendezvous, berthing, grappling, and even landing scenarios, with applications stretching from low-gravity research to active debris removal, satellite assembly, and beyond. The facilities also provide real-time data integration with robotic arms, precise GNC experimentation, and opportunities for students and startups to bring their concepts to life under ESA mentorship. ESA’s approach—replicating orbital challenges as closely as possible on Earth—accelerates innovation, validation, and training for mission-critical robotics, while keeping costs and risks manageable. This hands-on environment prepares both technology and talent for operational realities in space, helping secure the future of safe, intelligent, and sustainable satellite operations. Discover more about how European excellence in ground-based robotics labs is shaping the future of in-orbit servicing and planetary missions: https://lnkd.in/eMNrhVum https://lnkd.in/ef9G-N6u https://lnkd.in/ewsXSU3R #ESA #Robotics #SpaceOperations #OrbitalRobotics #ESTEC #InOrbitServicing #SpaceEngineering #AI #SpaceDebris #SatelliteTech #FutureOfSpacelinkedin Marti Vilella, Space Robotics Engineer and manager of the Orbital Robotics Laboratory at ESA, involved in in-orbit servicing research, robotic systems testing, and education. Thomas Krüger, Team Lead of the Human-Robot Interaction Lab at ESA, with a long-standing focus on robotic and telerobotic system development for space exploration. Martin Azkarate, Planetary Robotics Lab Manager at ESA, leads a team within the Automation and Robotics section, which often collaborates with the ORL. For overall strategic oversight, Daniel Neuenschwander is the Director of Human & Robotic Exploration at ESA.

Why MARS 1 Could Redefine Navigation and Autonomy Beyond Earth   Lunar Outpost’s upcoming MARS 1 mission represents a bold step forward, not just for robotics, but for the entire field of autonomous navigation and coordination in space. Designed to test Mobile Autonomous Robotic Swarms (MARS) in orbit, this mission will validate how multiple spacecraft can self-navigate, self-coordinate, and maintain functionality without continuous human or ground-based support.   Key Mission Insights: • Two small spacecraft will operate cooperatively in orbit, each equipped with autonomous swarm software. Together, they’ll test resilient navigation, mesh networking, and decentralized coordination. • The payloads include experimental PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing) systems designed to remain operational even during communication blackouts — a key step toward true autonomy. • Launch is set for early 2026 aboard the SpaceX Transporter 16 rideshare via Exotrail’s spacevan™ orbital transfer vehicle. Why This Matters from a Navigation Specialist’s Perspective:   In traditional space operations, spacecraft rely heavily on Earth-based infrastructure like GNSS, ground tracking, and real-time communication links for navigation and control. But as we expand into cislunar space, Mars, and beyond, those systems simply won’t reach.   This is where resilient, decentralized navigation becomes essential. Missions like MARS 1 are not just proving new robotics concepts; they’re stress-testing the next generation of spatial awareness and autonomy in completely GNSS-denied environments.   As a navigation specialist, what stands out is the emphasis on onboard intelligence, the ability for spacecraft to determine position, attitude, and relative motion using local sensors, star trackers, optical navigation, and cooperative algorithms. This shift from centralized control to networked autonomy changes everything: • Spacecraft will no longer depend on continuous uplinks for guidance. • Multi-agent systems can dynamically adapt and coordinate using shared situational awareness. • Swarm behaviors: formation flying, cooperative mapping, distributed sensing that could become scalable and self-sustaining. The Bigger Picture:   For engineers and companies in navigation, sensor fusion, and autonomy, this represents both a challenge and an enormous opportunity: • How do we design algorithms that remain robust with limited reference points? • How do we validate precision and timing in completely independent systems? • How can resilient PNT evolve to serve cooperative robotic swarms, not just single platforms? The MARS 1 mission is a signal: the future of space will depend not just on propulsion or payloads, but on how well systems perceive, orient, and cooperate. It’s a thrilling time to be working in navigation and autonomy. What’s coming next won’t just orbit Earth, it will navigate the unknown.   #SpaceExploration #NavigationTechnology #ResilientNavigation