This area of research interest is strategically aligned with SSTI’s global vision, addressing critical space sustainability issues through interdisciplinary AI & Robotics research. Here, we focus on developing innovative solutions for future space needs in active debris removal, in-space servicing, assembly, manufacturing, and in-situ resource utilization.

RP1: Next generation of robotic manipulation for active debris removal
This program develops a bio-inspired, AI-powered robotic manipulator designed for the precise capture and removal of space debris in unstructured orbital environments. By balancing machine learning for real-time decision-making with mechanically intelligent design, this system addresses the critical gap between force-sensitive manipulation and autonomous adaptability, key to sustainable orbital cleanup.

 

RP2: Bio-Inspired Robotic Penetrator for Lunar Polar Regolith Resource Prospecting and Excavation
This program pioneers a novel bio-inspired robotic penetrator to overcome the challenges of prospecting and excavating water ice and volatile-rich regolith in the Moon’s polar regions. Drawing inspiration from nature, the penetrator combines self-burrowing locomotion with low-power, high-efficiency excavation to minimize energy consumption in extreme lunar conditions.
 

RP3: Assistive Robotics enhancing Astronaut Safety and Productivity in Space Operations
This program focuses on intelligent assistive robotics to enhance astronaut efficiency and safety during complex space operations. Leveraging multi-modal sensing and AI-powered control, the system integrates eye-tracking technology with haptic feedback interfaces to enable astronauts to remotely operate robotic manipulators with unprecedented precision and reduced cognitive load.