GITAI, a U.S.-headquartered space robotics company, has announced that its Japanese subsidiary, GITAI Japan Inc., has been awarded a contract by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)to conduct a concept study for a robotic arm system intended for use on a pressurized crewed lunar rover. The rover is part of Japan’s contribution to the Artemis program and is designed to support extended human exploration of the Moon’s polar regions.
GITAI’s Inchworm robots perform a tech demonstration outside the ISS, showcasing their capabilities in space. This image highlights advanced robotics for future space infrastructure.
The goal of the study is to define the optimal design and system requirements for a robotic arm capable of performing key lunar science operations during uncrewed periods and otherwise assisting with tasks during crewed missions. The arm is expected to enable a wide range of surface operations, including regolith excavation, sample collection, payload handling and installation, as well as support for scientific instrumentation. The system will be designed to support both autonomous and remotely operated control modes, broadening the operational envelope for lunar surface research.
This project builds on GITAI’s portfolio of demonstrated space robotics technologies. The company has successfully conducted robotic arm demonstrations inside and outside the International Space Station (ISS), validating autonomous structural assembly and maintenance tasks. In 2024, GITAI launched and operated its first internally developed 16U-class satellite in low Earth orbit, validating core satellite bus components including propulsion and attitude control systems.
GITAI’s Inchworm-type robotic arm, now under consideration for lunar applications, has completed a range of environmental tests to simulate the extreme conditions of the Moon’s South Pole. These include regolith exposure, thermal vacuum cycling, vibration, and radiation testing, resulting in a Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL-6) designation.
The company has also expanded its U.S. operations, relocating its headquarters and manufacturing to Torrance, California, and securing permanent U.S. residency for its core management and engineering teams. In addition to contracts with JAXA, GITAI has been awarded projects by NASA, DARPA, and U.S. commercial space companies.
This concept study represents a positive strategic step toward enabling extended autonomous and remote-controlled lunar operations, supporting sustained exploration through robotic labor on the Moon.
About GITAI
GITAI is a space robotics company focused on reducing the cost and risk of space labor. The company develops robotic systems for on-orbit servicing and lunar infrastructure support. GITAI operates in both Japan and the United States and works with national space agencies and commercial aerospace companies. Learn more at www.gitai.tech.
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