Torrance, CA, USA – Aug 16, 2022 – GITAI USA Inc. (GITAI), the world’s leading space robotics company, developed the GITAI IN1 (Inchworm One), an inchworm-type robotic arm equipped with “grapple end-effectors* ” on both ends of the arm. This unique feature increases “Capability”, which enables it to connect to various tools (end-effectors) to perform multiple tasks for various applications, and “Mobility”, which enables it to move in any direction. It can also connect/disconnect itself among different vehicles, such as rovers, landers, satellites, etc. In collaboration with the already announced GITAI R1 lunar rover, the GITAI IN1 has successfully completed various tests corresponding to Level 3 of NASA’s Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) in a simulated lunar environment at the JAXA Sagamihara Campus. Here we release a video of this technical demonstration.
As the demand for development/construction tasks in space are increasing, the requirements for robots in space are becoming diverse and complex. GITAI has responded to these needs by developing the GITAI IN1, an inchworm-type robotic arm equipped with “grapple end-effectors” on both ends of the arm. It enhances the performance of two different types of features: “Capability”, to perform multiple tasks, and “Mobility”, to perform a wide range of tasks.
This ground demonstration test emulates tasks that will be required for future lunar explorations and lunar base constructions using two robots: GITAI IN1, an inchworm-type robotic arm, and GITAI R1, a lunar rover already announced on Feb 10, 2022. The following two sets of tests were conducted in the simulated lunar environment at JAXA Sagamihara Campus, and all tests were completed successfully.
1. “Mobility” performance verification test The GITAI IN1 robotic arm moved itself autonomously from the lunar lander to the GITAI R1 rover, moved to the worksite carried by R1, performed the various tasks, and returned to the lunar lander to verify its “Mobility” performance.
2. “Capability” performance verification test Assuming lunar resource extraction operations, we verified “Capability” to conduct a series of tasks such as breaking down resource samples using cutting tools, recovering resource samples using shovels, and transporting resource samples using a tow vehicle, all while switching between multiple end-effectors.
* Grapple end-effector / grapple fixture: GITAI’s proprietary interface that enables the end of the robotic arm to be interchangeable. Not only does it improve task performance by connecting to various tools (end-effectors) to perform multiple tasks, but it also enables autonomous movement of the arm itself when equipped at both ends of the arm. When mated with a grapple fixture, the grapple end-effector provides mechanical coupling, power coupling, and communication coupling functions to enable operation of end-effector tools and other devices.
■ About GITAI
GITAI is the world’s leading space robotics company that aims to provide a safe and affordable means of labor in space and reduce operational costs by up to 100 times. GITAI is developing highly capable, safe, and reliable robots to help build and maintain satellites, space stations, lunar bases, and even cities on Mars.
https://gitai.tech/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IN1_top.jpg7201280gitaitechhttps://gitai.tech/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/gitai-logo.svggitaitech2022-08-16 22:00:002024-06-01 20:42:57GITAI develops inchworm-type robotic arm extending both the capability and mobility of space robots and completes Proof-of-Concept demonstration (TRL 3)
Torrance, CA, USA – Aug 3rd, 2022 – GITAI USA Inc. (GITAI), the world’s leading space robotics company, developed “S10”, a 10 meter autonomous robotic arm for commercial space stations, which are being developed by several companies in the US. The GITAI S10 has successfully completed various tests corresponding to level 3 of NASA’s Technology Readiness Level (TRL). Here we release a video of this technical demonstration.
GITAI’s first 10m autonomous robotic arm, “S10”, is characterized by its flexibility to meet various customer needs and short lead time. This is realized by GITAI’s unique development strategy, where all the core technology required to develop a space robot including mechatronics, electronics, and software are developed in-house, and all the engineers work side by side in the Agile development process. In fact, the GITAI S10 has successfully completed the following ground demonstration tests corresponding to TRL 3 (Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof-of concept) in less than 6 months from start of project.
Testing the autonomous mobility of the S10 using grapple end-effectors* and grapple fixtures. This test assumed that the S10 would move outside the space station to perform inspections, repairs, station construction, etc.
Testing capturing large objects using grapple end-effectors and grapple fixtures. This test assumed that the S10 would capture a spacecraft or handle large payloads.
* Grapple end effector / grapple fixture: GITAI’s proprietary interface that enables the end of the robotic arm to be interchangeable. Not only does it improve task performance by connecting to various tools to perform multiple tasks, but it also enables autonomous movement of the arm itself when equipped at both ends of the arm.
By March 2023, the GITAI S10 is scheduled to conduct a similar demonstration test in an underwater experimental facility which simulates micro-gravity, in order to achieve TRL 6 (System/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment). GITAI will respond to the diversifying demand for work in space by adding this 10m robotic arm, GITAI S10, to its product lineup in addition to the already announced 2m robotic arm, GITAI S2.
■ About GITAI
GITAI is the world’s leading space robotics company that aims to provide a safe and affordable means of labor in space and reduce operational costs by up to 100 times. GITAI aims to provide highly capable, safe, and reliable robots to help build and maintain satellites, space stations, lunar bases, and even cities on Mars.
Company: GITAI USA Inc. (Los Angeles), GITAI Japan Inc. (Tokyo)
https://gitai.tech/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DSC00134-scaled.jpg17102560gitaitechhttps://gitai.tech/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/gitai-logo.svggitaitech2022-08-04 01:00:002024-06-01 20:42:57GITAI develops a 10 meter robotic arm for space and completes the Proof-of-Concept demonstration (TRL 3)
Space robotics startup GITAI will demonstrate the capabilities of their autonomous robot mounted external to the International Space Station (ISS) on the Nanoracks Bishop Airlock in 2023.
■ Ground demonstration video of In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing executing by GITAI autonomous robot for the extra-vehicular tech-demo outside of the ISS planned in 2023 (recorded in the facility@GITAI Tokyo office).
In this technical demonstration, GITAI’s 1.5m-long autonomous dual robotic arm system “S2” seeks to autonomously execute In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing in the vacuum of space.* Overview of Tasks
GITAI will establish the In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing capabilities cultivated through this technology demonstration and with the goal to provide it to the US private space stations and orbital services providers.
■ Joint announcement from GITAI and Nanoracks “There are a tremendous number of applications in space that our robotic arm can be used for, including on-orbit servicing and lunar exploration, and we are thrilled to be able to partner with Nanoracks yet again,” said Sho Nakanose, founder and CEO of GITAI. “Our vision is to provide a safe and affordable means of labor in space, and this opportunity on the Bishop Airlock brings us one step closer to making that happen.”
“This mission is a key stepping-stone towards commercialization of LEO enabling both government and private sectors to obtain robust and high-performance robotics in space,” said Amela Wilson, CEO of Nanoracks. “We look forward to completing a successful demonstration of GITAI’s space robotics technology.”
■ GITAI’s Mission GITAI is a space robotics startup that aims to provide a safe and affordable means of labor in space and reduce operational costs in space by 100 times. GITAI aims to provide highly capable, safe, and reliable robots to help build and maintain satellites, lunar bases and even cities on Mars. GITAI is bringing together the best talents in the world to make this dream a reality. GITAI is actively seeking highly motivated engineers and business development professionals to support these many endeavors. If you think you have what it takes, come join us to send robots to the final frontier.
■ About GITAI GITAI is a relatively small but rapidly growing company. Over half of our full-time employees have PhDs in engineering and science and three are former research associates from the University of Tokyo and former NASA employees. Our company executives successfully built and sold their companies including Google and American Express. GITAI has many exciting projects at various levels of development and testing, from early concepts to laboratory prototypes to our technical demonstration robot currently deployed in a commercial module of the International Space Station;
– Space Station Support: GITAI robotic arms with tool changers can be tailored to optimize the dexterity for required applications such as solar panel assembly, repetitive gearing, moving, repairing, payload transfer, human EVA support, modules and spacecraft docking support.
– On-orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing: Our non-satellite services include space debris removal to protect satellite constellations. Debris removal is carried out by direct capture or by orbital modification using laser injection and ablation. Debris removal enables companies to maintain reliable satellite systems while avoiding disruptive satellite maneuvering or costly replacement. Our robotic arm satellite services include fueling, assembly, and manufacturing, directly to satellites.
– Establishing Permanent Human Presence on the Moon and Mars: Including inspection on the Moon and Mars, we will conduct construction work on the Lunar Surface Station in support of NASA’s In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) program. We are developing specialized rovers based on our GITAI’s prototype Rover. GITAI’s ultimate goal is to enable high capability, reliable, low-cost operations on the lunar surface.
Company：GITAI Japan Inc (Headquarters in Tokyo), GITAI USA Inc.（LA Office） CEO：Sho Nakanose URL：https://gitai.tech/en Contact Us：info@gitai.tech Facebook Twitter
■ About Nanoracks Nanoracks, powered by Voyager Space, is a global leader for providing commercial space services. Nanoracks owns and operates private hardware on the International Space Station and has launched over 1,300 research experiments, deployed over 300 small satellites, and installed the Bishop Airlock. Today, Nanoracks leverages over a decade of experience to develop new commercial space systems in direct response to customer needs. These space systems include converting commercial launch vehicle upper stages into functional secondary platforms, building new habitable space stations, supplying payload and crew airlock systems and services infrastructure, and more.
Follow @Nanoracks on Twitter to learn more or visit https://nanoracks.com.
■ About Voyager Space Voyager Space is a space technology company dedicated to building a better future for humanity in space and on Earth. With nearly 20 years of spaceflight heritage and over 1500 successful missions as of April 2022, Voyager delivers space station infrastructure and services and technology solutions to commercial users, civil and national security government agencies, academic and research institutions, and more, with the goal to accelerate a sustainable space economy.
For more information, please visit www.voyagerspace.com
https://gitai.tech/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/DSC03536-2-1-scaled.jpg17102560gitaitechhttps://gitai.tech/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/gitai-logo.svggitaitech2022-07-11 23:00:232024-06-01 20:42:57GITAI announces space robotics technology demonstration outside ISS
GITAI develops inchworm-type robotic arm extending both the capability and mobility of space robots and completes Proof-of-Concept demonstration (TRL 3)
NEWSTorrance, CA, USA – Aug 16, 2022 – GITAI USA Inc. (GITAI), the world’s leading space robotics company, developed the GITAI IN1 (Inchworm One), an inchworm-type robotic arm equipped with “grapple end-effectors* ” on both ends of the arm. This unique feature increases “Capability”, which enables it to connect to various tools (end-effectors) to perform multiple tasks for various applications, and “Mobility”, which enables it to move in any direction. It can also connect/disconnect itself among different vehicles, such as rovers, landers, satellites, etc. In collaboration with the already announced GITAI R1 lunar rover, the GITAI IN1 has successfully completed various tests corresponding to Level 3 of NASA’s Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) in a simulated lunar environment at the JAXA Sagamihara Campus. Here we release a video of this technical demonstration.
As the demand for development/construction tasks in space are increasing, the requirements for robots in space are becoming diverse and complex. GITAI has responded to these needs by developing the GITAI IN1, an inchworm-type robotic arm equipped with “grapple end-effectors” on both ends of the arm. It enhances the performance of two different types of features: “Capability”, to perform multiple tasks, and “Mobility”, to perform a wide range of tasks.
This ground demonstration test emulates tasks that will be required for future lunar explorations and lunar base constructions using two robots: GITAI IN1, an inchworm-type robotic arm, and GITAI R1, a lunar rover already announced on Feb 10, 2022. The following two sets of tests were conducted in the simulated lunar environment at JAXA Sagamihara Campus, and all tests were completed successfully.
1. “Mobility” performance verification test
The GITAI IN1 robotic arm moved itself autonomously from the lunar lander to the GITAI R1 rover, moved to the worksite carried by R1, performed the various tasks, and returned to the lunar lander to verify its “Mobility” performance.
2. “Capability” performance verification test
Assuming lunar resource extraction operations, we verified “Capability” to conduct a series of tasks such as breaking down resource samples using cutting tools, recovering resource samples using shovels, and transporting resource samples using a tow vehicle, all while switching between multiple end-effectors.
* Grapple end-effector / grapple fixture: GITAI’s proprietary interface that enables the end of the robotic arm to be interchangeable. Not only does it improve task performance by connecting to various tools (end-effectors) to perform multiple tasks, but it also enables autonomous movement of the arm itself when equipped at both ends of the arm. When mated with a grapple fixture, the grapple end-effector provides mechanical coupling, power coupling, and communication coupling functions to enable operation of end-effector tools and other devices.
■ About GITAI
GITAI is the world’s leading space robotics company that aims to provide a safe and affordable means of labor in space and reduce operational costs by up to 100 times. GITAI is developing highly capable, safe, and reliable robots to help build and maintain satellites, space stations, lunar bases, and even cities on Mars.
Company: GITAI USA Inc.(Los Angeles), GITAI Japan, Inc.(Tokyo)
CEO: Sho Nakanose
URL: https://gitai.tech/en
Contact Us：info@gitai.tech
Press Kit:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1zByxo2FKDogh9oJ34caAAWFS1_W4dzSF?usp=sharing
GITAI develops a 10 meter robotic arm for space and completes the Proof-of-Concept demonstration (TRL 3)
NEWSTorrance, CA, USA – Aug 3rd, 2022 – GITAI USA Inc. (GITAI), the world’s leading space robotics company, developed “S10”, a 10 meter autonomous robotic arm for commercial space stations, which are being developed by several companies in the US. The GITAI S10 has successfully completed various tests corresponding to level 3 of NASA’s Technology Readiness Level (TRL). Here we release a video of this technical demonstration.
GITAI’s first 10m autonomous robotic arm, “S10”, is characterized by its flexibility to meet various customer needs and short lead time. This is realized by GITAI’s unique development strategy, where all the core technology required to develop a space robot including mechatronics, electronics, and software are developed in-house, and all the engineers work side by side in the Agile development process. In fact, the GITAI S10 has successfully completed the following ground demonstration tests corresponding to TRL 3 (Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof-of concept) in less than 6 months from start of project.
* Grapple end effector / grapple fixture: GITAI’s proprietary interface that enables the end of the robotic arm to be interchangeable. Not only does it improve task performance by connecting to various tools to perform multiple tasks, but it also enables autonomous movement of the arm itself when equipped at both ends of the arm.
By March 2023, the GITAI S10 is scheduled to conduct a similar demonstration test in an underwater experimental facility which simulates micro-gravity, in order to achieve TRL 6 (System/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment). GITAI will respond to the diversifying demand for work in space by adding this 10m robotic arm, GITAI S10, to its product lineup in addition to the already announced 2m robotic arm, GITAI S2.
■ About GITAI
GITAI is the world’s leading space robotics company that aims to provide a safe and affordable means of labor in space and reduce operational costs by up to 100 times. GITAI aims to provide highly capable, safe, and reliable robots to help build and maintain satellites, space stations, lunar bases, and even cities on Mars.
Company: GITAI USA Inc. (Los Angeles), GITAI Japan Inc. (Tokyo)
CEO: Sho Nakanose
URL: https://gitai.tech/en
Contact Us：info@gitai.tech
<Press Kit>
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1J35JKT_qsdnhQeQ9MW2jKDQtoGbiXNb5?usp=sharing
GITAI announces space robotics technology demonstration outside ISS
NEWSSpace robotics startup GITAI will demonstrate the capabilities of their autonomous robot mounted external to the International Space Station (ISS) on the Nanoracks Bishop Airlock in 2023.
■ Ground demonstration video of In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing executing by GITAI autonomous robot for the extra-vehicular tech-demo outside of the ISS planned in 2023 (recorded in the facility@GITAI Tokyo office).
■ Details of the GITAI ISS Technology Demonstration outside ISS
GITAI first demonstrated their robotic technology on board the International Space Station (ISS) in 2021 in collaboration with Nanoracks, meeting all mission objectives. As the next challenge, GITAI’s extra-vehicular autonomous robot will be deployed externally on the Bishop Airlock in 2023.
In this technical demonstration, GITAI’s 1.5m-long autonomous dual robotic arm system “S2” seeks to autonomously execute In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing in the vacuum of space.
* Overview of Tasks
GITAI has already successfully tested this same model autonomous robot in the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (JAXA) 8m class thermal vacuum chamber in February this year. The autonomous robot then reached NASA’s Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 following this ground system test. By demonstrating this technology in space, GITAI aims to achieve TRL Level 7 (confirmation of the feasibility of the technology as a system in space).
GITAI will establish the In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing capabilities cultivated through this technology demonstration and with the goal to provide it to the US private space stations and orbital services providers.
■ Joint announcement from GITAI and Nanoracks
“There are a tremendous number of applications in space that our robotic arm can be used for, including on-orbit servicing and lunar exploration, and we are thrilled to be able to partner with Nanoracks yet again,” said Sho Nakanose, founder and CEO of GITAI. “Our vision is to provide a safe and affordable means of labor in space, and this opportunity on the Bishop Airlock brings us one step closer to making that happen.”
“This mission is a key stepping-stone towards commercialization of LEO enabling both government and private sectors to obtain robust and high-performance robotics in space,” said Amela Wilson, CEO of Nanoracks. “We look forward to completing a successful demonstration of GITAI’s space robotics technology.”
■ About GITAI’s business activities
GITAI continues to develop space robotics actively, applying the space robotic technologies obtained through the successful technical demonstration in the ISS last year, as well as the extra-vehicular technical demonstration outside of the ISS planned in 2023. Based on the space-proven technology acquired by the demonstrations in space, we have been contracting various customer missions, such as joint development with TOYOTA Automobile and orders from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan. We opened a new office in Los Angeles, CA, for GITAI USA, Inc., and started full-scale recruitment in the United States. We are also actively collaborating with US government institutes and private companies in the US.
■ GITAI’s Mission
GITAI is a space robotics startup that aims to provide a safe and affordable means of labor in space and reduce operational costs in space by 100 times. GITAI aims to provide highly capable, safe, and reliable robots to help build and maintain satellites, lunar bases and even cities on Mars. GITAI is bringing together the best talents in the world to make this dream a reality.
GITAI is actively seeking highly motivated engineers and business development professionals to support these many endeavors. If you think you have what it takes, come join us to send robots to the final frontier.
■ About GITAI
GITAI is a relatively small but rapidly growing company. Over half of our full-time employees have PhDs in engineering and science and three are former research associates from the University of Tokyo and former NASA employees. Our company executives successfully built and sold their companies including Google and American Express.
GITAI has many exciting projects at various levels of development and testing, from early concepts to laboratory prototypes to our technical demonstration robot currently deployed in a commercial module of the International Space Station;
– Space Station Support:
GITAI robotic arms with tool changers can be tailored to optimize the dexterity for required applications such as solar panel assembly, repetitive gearing, moving, repairing, payload transfer, human EVA support, modules and spacecraft docking support.
– On-orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing:
Our non-satellite services include space debris removal to protect satellite constellations. Debris removal is carried out by direct capture or by orbital modification using laser injection and ablation. Debris removal enables companies to maintain reliable satellite systems while avoiding disruptive satellite maneuvering or costly replacement. Our robotic arm satellite services include fueling, assembly, and manufacturing, directly to satellites.
– Establishing Permanent Human Presence on the Moon and Mars:
Including inspection on the Moon and Mars, we will conduct construction work on the Lunar Surface Station in support of NASA’s In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) program. We are developing specialized rovers based on our GITAI’s prototype Rover. GITAI’s ultimate goal is to enable high capability, reliable, low-cost operations on the lunar surface.
Company：GITAI Japan Inc (Headquarters in Tokyo), GITAI USA Inc.（LA Office）
CEO：Sho Nakanose
URL：https://gitai.tech/en
Contact Us：info@gitai.tech
Facebook
Twitter
■ About Nanoracks
Nanoracks, powered by Voyager Space, is a global leader for providing commercial space services. Nanoracks owns and operates private hardware on the International Space Station and has launched over 1,300 research experiments, deployed over 300 small satellites, and installed the Bishop Airlock. Today, Nanoracks leverages over a decade of experience to develop new commercial space systems in direct response to customer needs. These space systems include converting commercial launch vehicle upper stages into functional secondary platforms, building new habitable space stations, supplying payload and crew airlock systems and services infrastructure, and more.
Follow @Nanoracks on Twitter to learn more or visit https://nanoracks.com.
■ About Voyager Space
Voyager Space is a space technology company dedicated to building a better future for humanity in space and on Earth. With nearly 20 years of spaceflight heritage and over 1500 successful missions as of April 2022, Voyager delivers space station infrastructure and services and technology solutions to commercial users, civil and national security government agencies, academic and research institutions, and more, with the goal to accelerate a sustainable space economy.
For more information, please visit www.voyagerspace.com
<Press Kit>