This inchworm-like robot, developed by GITAI USA Inc., is designed for autonomous operations in space. The robot mimics the movement of an inchworm, attaching and detaching itself from various surfaces to "crawl" between locations, making it an ideal solution for tasks that require flexibility and precision in harsh space environments.

In a significant milestone for GITAI, the company shared footage announcing that their Inchworm-type Robot Arm has successfully reached Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL6). Achieving this status means that the robotic arm has passed rigorous testing under conditions that simulate the extreme environments of space, particularly those found at the lunar South Pole.

The robot underwent testing in a thermal vacuum chamber specifically designed to mimic the hostile conditions of space. The chamber replicated the extreme temperature variations found in the permanently shadowed regions of the lunar South Pole, as well as the warmer temperatures experienced during lunar daytime. During the test, the robot operated continuously for 29 hours, covering a distance of approximately one mile (1,503 steps). Despite the intense conditions, with temperatures dropping to as low as -140°C and vacuum levels less than 1E-5 Torr, the robot successfully completed all tasks, proving its resilience and operational capacity.

One of the critical tests included a docking procedure with a simulated satellite, where the robot used its tool changer function to attach a specialized end effector and capture the satellite’s separation ring. This capability demonstrates its potential for on-orbit servicing, a key function for extending the life of satellites and reducing the cost of space missions.

To ensure continuous operation during the test, the robot was primarily powered by four wireless power transmission systems installed around the chamber. These systems provided the energy needed for the robot to function in the harsh vacuum environment. Additionally, the robot’s ability to switch to a battery power source was also tested, simulating a power failure scenario to ensure that it can continue functioning in the event of system malfunctions.

This inchworm-like robotic arm has several planned applications. GITAI envisions it being used for repairing and servicing satellites, where it could autonomously dock with satellites, perform maintenance, and extend their operational lifespan. It’s also expected to play a crucial role in building infrastructure on the moon, contributing to the construction of habitats, communication stations, or other necessary structures. These tasks are too dangerous or difficult for astronauts, making autonomous robots like GITAI’s arm invaluable for future space missions.

The California-based startup, which recently expanded its Los Angeles headquarters and space robot manufacturing facility to increase production capacity, will now focus on further advancing the robot’s capabilities. With 80% of the Inchworm-type Robot Arm’s core components shared with GITAI’s S2 robotic arm, which has already achieved TRL7 for low-Earth orbit operations, GITAI aims to continue improving the technology’s readiness for both lunar and orbital missions. The company is targeting full operational deployment in future space missions, aiming to reduce the cost of space operations by 100 times.

Looking ahead, GITAI will be pushing toward TRL7 and beyond, focusing on real-world demonstrations of the robot's performance in space. These include testing in actual space environments, such as on the International Space Station (ISS) or future lunar missions. As GITAI continues to refine its space robotics technologies, the inchworm-like robot will be an essential part of the company's broader goal: making space exploration and operations more efficient, safer, and dramatically less expensive.