Safe Persistent Operations with Cobots in Space (SPOCS)

SPOCS will change the nature of robotics in space by allowing not only operating robots in the presence of humans but actually allowing robots and humans to work collaboratively in the same space. This will increase task efficiency thereby minimizing astronaut labor and improve astronaut safety by avoiding repetitive tasks, heavy lifting, and fine dexterous movements. As a comparison to the state of the art, SPOCS will allow for a dramatic increase in the speed of completion of tasks in space (compared to ISS) and a significant reduction in the amount of labor in planning, training, simulating, and observing such robotic operations involving humans. In addition to its profound potential in space applications, similar benefits can be realized in terrestrial applications where the market is significantly larger yet no technology like SPOCS currently exists. Manual logistics tasks can be physically and mentally demanding. By delegating repetitive and physically strenuous tasks to collaborative robots (cobots), astronauts can focus on more complex and critical aspects of the mission, such as scientific research and operational decision making; however, delegation of manual logistics tasks does not negate the need for safe and effective human-robot interactions. While the astronauts perform mission critical tasks, the cobot must be aware of and plan around humans and other objects within its workspace. Furthermore, many logistics tasks, like large payload tending (e.g., fuel tanks), require human-robot collaboration to successfully complete the task. The developed technologies are enabling capabilities that support several core objectives of NASA’s mission in its Moon to Mars architecture. SPOCS is a step towards closing the Tier 2 technology gap ESDMD #0806 payload offloading, handling, and manipulation for surface assets from the Moon to Mars architecture.

NASA has a rich history of robotics systems being deployed on both the Moon and Mars. As NASA moves towards a permanent presence on the Moon, and ultimately Mars, robotics in collaboration with humans will play a vital role in the construction, assembly, outfitting, inspection, and maintenance of infrastructure, and will consequently enable new capabilities in these theaters. The SPOCS architecture is intended to be a general purpose and scalable robot controller that facilitates collaborative robotics (Cobots) in space. Cobot applications include space stations (both internal and external operations); planetary surface operations: logistics, maintenance, construction and mining; and terrestrial applications in factories and laboratories. Potential near term mission infusion targets include: A) The Artemis Lunar program: SPOCS can aid in the multitude of collaborative tasks that will be required to build and maintain a lunar base. B) NASA’s Moon to Mars campaign where advanced robotic systems will be required to expand humanities presence in the solar system. C) Commercial Low Earth Orbit Destinations (CLD): Both IVR and EVR activities can be greatly aided by SPOCS While SPOCS is being developed for robotic collaboration with astronauts, it has direct and meaningful applications in terrestrial environments as well. The terrestrial cobot market size has been growing at a record pace over the past few years. The cobot market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 35% from 2024 to 2030 when it’s projected to reach $12B. The capabilities that a successful SPOCS development will offer will be directly applicable to this vast and growing market by allowing true collaboration between humans and robots. In this market sales would be more likely to target business-to-business models as the user community tends to prefer integrated solutions. The application space is immense and include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Manufacturing & Assembly • Assisting in repetitive tasks like screwdriving, welding, and quality inspection • Handling delicate components in electronics and automotive industries • Working in flexible production lines 2. Logistics & Warehousing • Picking, packing, and sorting goods • Autonomous material transport and inventory management • Assisting in e-commerce fulfillment centers 3. Healthcare & Medical • Assisting in surgeries (e.g., robotic-assisted surgery) • Helping with rehabilitation and physical therapy • Handling lab automation for sample testing 4. Agriculture & Food Processing • Planting, harvesting, and crop monitoring • Sorting and packaging fruits, vegetables, and meats • Assisting in food preparation and quality control 5. Retail & Customer Service • Automated checkout and self-service kiosks • Stock replenishment and inventory tracking • Providing customer assistance in stores and banks 6. Construction & Heavy Industries • Assisting with bricklaying, 3D printing of buildings • Handling hazardous tasks in demolition and welding • Operating in high-risk environments like mining

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.