#space robotics

All articles tagged with "space robotics"

China’s first flexible space robotic arm completes in orbit tests

China Tests Flexible Robotic Arm in Orbit, Highlighting a New Toolset for Satellite Servicing

A Chinese commercial technology-demonstration satellite has reportedly completed in-orbit tests of a highly flexible robotic arm intended for repair-related operations in space.

Key Takeaways

A Chinese commercial tech-demo satellite reportedly tested a flexible robotic arm in orbit.
The arm is presented as a tool for on-orbit repair work.

DT Editorial Team·Apr 2, 2026·via interestingengineering.com

Chinese Startup Reports In-Orbit Test of Flexible Robotic Arm for Satellite Servicing

Sustain Space says it has completed on-orbit demonstrations of a flexible robotic arm, including simulated refueling and force-controlled operations, in a step toward commercial satellite servicing and debris-mitigation.

Key Takeaways

Sustain Space says its Xiyuan-0 satellite completed robotic-arm operations in orbit.
The mission tested autonomous, teleoperated, vision-based, and force-controlled modes.

DT Editorial Team·Apr 1, 2026·via spacenews.com

PickNik and Motiv Team Up for NASA Orbital Robotics Mission

PickNik Robotics will provide MoveIt Pro motion planning software for Motiv Space Systems' robotic arm on NASA's Fly Foundational Robotics mission for in-space assembly.

Key Takeaways

PickNik will provide MoveIt Pro motion planning on Space ROS for Motiv's robotic arm on NASA's Fly Foundational Robotics mission
Motiv's prior COLDArm project for NASA operated at -280°F without heating, conserving up to 30% of mission energy

DT Editorial Team·Feb 14, 2026·2 min read·via therobotreport.com