The global space economy continues to expand at pace, surpassing $600 billion in 2024 according to the Space Foundation, with further growth forecast over the next decade.
Behind the headline numbers, a quieter but equally significant transformation is under way: the rise of robotics as essential infrastructure for working and building beyond Earth.
For decades, astronauts and satellites dominated the narrative. Now, robotic systems – arms, rovers, crawlers, and autonomous builders – are moving from experiment to deployment.
Government-funded space agencies such as NASA, ESA, and JAXA, along with commercial players from the United States, Japan, Canada, and Europe, are betting that these machines will be the backbone of space activity in the 2030s.
For investors and engineers, the central question is simple: who is building the robots most likely to succeed commercially?
Types of space robots under development: Few humans necessary
Space robotics is not a single category but a family of machines, each solving different challenges.
Robotic arms remain the most mature segment. MDA Space’s Canadarm2 is a mainstay of the International Space Station, while GITAI, Arkisys, and Motiv Space Systems are developing smaller, more versatile manipulators for future missions.
Free-flying robots like NASA’s Astrobee operate inside the ISS, providing autonomous monitoring and experiment support. Partnerships with Arkisys could extend this role to servicing external platforms.
Construction robots are emerging as NASA prepares for lunar infrastructure. HEBI Robotics, for example, is working on modular machines designed to build on the Moon’s surface.
On-orbit servicing robots promise to refuel, repair, and even upgrade spacecraft. Companies like Arkisys and Maxar are positioning themselves to capture this niche.
Planetary rovers and crawlers – from iSpace’s lunar landers to Astrolab’s Flex rover – are being designed to carry payloads and assist astronauts directly.
In-space manufacturing robots are already active, with Redwire’s Made In Space division 3D-printing parts on the ISS, pointing toward orbital factories of the future.
Company landscape: Who’s building what?
Here are around 20 of the most active companies and organisations shaping the market, grouped by their specialisation.
Robotic arms and servicing systems
- MDA Space (Canada) – builder of Canadarm2 and the upcoming Canadarm3 for NASA’s Gateway lunar station.
- GITAI (Japan/US) – developing modular robotic arms and rovers, recently contracted by JAXA.
- Arkisys (US) – awarded a NASA partnership to advance the Astrobee robots, and building robotic “ports” for orbital servicing.
- Motiv Space Systems (US) – supplied robotic arms for NASA’s Perseverance rover, and now focused on on-orbit robotics.
- Maxar Technologies (US) – developed robotic systems for NASA’s satellite servicing mission Restore-L.
- GMV (Spain) – with four decades in robotics, supporting ESA and global programs.
Construction and planetary robotics
- HEBI Robotics (US) – selected by NASA to create modular construction robots for lunar building.
- Astrolab (US) – its Flex rover is designed for cargo transport and astronaut assistance on the Moon.
- iSpace (Japan) – pursuing lunar rovers and landers with a commercial model.
- ICON (US) – specialising in 3D-printed lunar habitats using robotic systems.
- Caterpillar (US) – adapting its autonomous mining and construction equipment for potential off-world use.
In-space manufacturing and infrastructure
- Redwire / Made In Space (US) – pioneers in 3D printing on the ISS, now expanding toward full orbital factories.
- Axiom Space (US) – building the first commercial space station with robotic interfaces.
- Space Applications Services (Belgium) – works with ESA on robotic systems and automation for space.
- Astroscale (Japan) – focused on debris removal and servicing, with robotic technologies central to its approach.
Other notable players
- NASA (USA) – continues to test and deploy robots like Astrobee and the humanoid R5 Valkyrie.
- ESA (Europe) – developing the European Robotic Arm and lunar robotics concepts.
- JAXA (Japan) – partners with GITAI and others for robotic systems.
- Northrop Grumman (USA) – developer of the Cygnus spacecraft and servicing heritage through MEV (Mission Extension Vehicle, a spacecraft developed by Northrop Grumman’s SpaceLogistics subsidiary).
- SpaceX (USA) – integrating robotic interfaces into Starship for cargo handling and lunar operations.
- Roscosmos (Russia) – has tested humanoid and robotic arms on the ISS, including the Fedor robot and ERA on the Russian segment.
- CNSA (China) – operates robotic arms and cargo systems on its Tiangong station and lunar rovers as part of the Chang’e program.
- ISRO (India) – developing robotic systems for lunar and planetary exploration as part of the Chandrayaan program and future missions.
Opportunities for investors: First mover advantage
Investment in space robotics sits at the intersection of government contracts and private ambition. Unlike satellites, which already support a large commercial market, robotics is still early-stage. Most companies rely on anchor customers like NASA, ESA, and JAXA.
That said, the potential upside is significant. Robots are not just optional tools, they are becoming indispensable. MDA’s Canadarm is a proven asset, while GITAI and Arkisys represent nimble startups with breakthrough potential.
Redwire offers exposure to in-space manufacturing, a segment that could support everything from orbital construction to pharmaceuticals.
Private investors should note the risk: timelines are long, missions are expensive, and power and durability constraints remain severe.
Yet, just as humanoid robotics attracted $2.5 billion in venture capital in 2024, space robotics could emerge as the next target for deep-tech investment, especially as reusable launch systems reduce costs.
Challenges and constraints: Absolutely power
Space remains an unforgiving environment. Robots must withstand extreme cold, radiation, dust, and long delays in communication.
Power storage is a particular hurdle: most current systems can only run a few hours before recharging, far from the round-the-clock operation needed for lunar or Martian construction.
Geopolitics adds another complication. Export restrictions, ITAR regulations, and competition between nations can slow collaboration and investment.
Beyond science fiction: The truth is out there
Space robotics is no longer a concept reserved for science fiction. From Canadarm2’s daily duties aboard the ISS to Redwire’s printers and GITAI’s robotic arms, the foundations are already being laid.
The companies that thrive will be those that secure government contracts now while positioning for the eventual commercial boom in the 2030s.
For engineers, this is a time of remarkable innovation. For investors, it is a frontier where risks are high but the potential rewards are transformative: building the literal machinery of the new space economy.
