GITAI to Design Robotic Arm for JAXA Crewed Lunar Rover

GITAI to Design Robotic Arm for JAXA Crewed Lunar Rover
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Apr 01, 2025

GITAI, a robotics firm with headquarters in the United States, has announced that its Japanese division, GITAI Japan Inc., has secured a contract with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to develop a concept study for a robotic arm system designed for a pressurized crewed lunar rover. This rover project forms part of Japan's broader involvement in NASA's Artemis initiative, focusing on prolonged human exploration around the Moon's south pole.

The study will outline the design and technical criteria for a robotic arm system that can operate autonomously during uncrewed phases of the mission, while also assisting astronauts during crewed operations. The arm's functions will include excavating lunar regolith, collecting rock and soil samples, and handling large payloads such as research equipment. It will also enable remote and autonomous science operations, thus broadening the range and timespan of lunar surface activities.

This initiative builds upon GITAI's expanding portfolio of successful space robotics developments. Among its recent accomplishments are:

- International Space Station Demonstrations: GITAI's robotic arms have been successfully tested inside and outside the ISS, executing complex autonomous assembly and maintenance operations.

- Satellite Deployment and Validation: In 2024, the company launched its first internally developed 16U-class satellite into low Earth orbit. This mission verified several critical subsystems, such as reaction wheel-based attitude control and propulsion-enabled orbital adjustments.

- Lunar Qualification Testing: GITAI's inchworm-style robotic arm has passed environmental evaluations simulating lunar surface conditions. These tests included exposure to regolith, thermal vacuum cycles, vibrations, and radiation, certifying the system at Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL-6).

- U.S. Operations Expansion: With full relocation of its headquarters and production facilities to Torrance, California, GITAI has also achieved U.S. permanent residency for key personnel. The company now holds contracts with major U.S. organizations including NASA, DARPA, and private aerospace firms.

The JAXA contract represents a major step forward in deploying robotic labor to support continuous lunar exploration and scientific research.