Flight Demonstrations of Commercial In-Space Logistics, Robotic Manipulation, and Automation Systems for Future Space Operations

Subtopic Problem Statement/Description: This subtopic seeks innovative concepts for flight demonstration of commercial in-space logistics, robotic manipulation, and automation systems that will enable advanced exploration, science operations, and in-space production capabilities enabling a commercial ecosystem. All proposals must include a plan to develop a flight demonstration with launch within the next five years, with strong recommendation to utilize NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) Flight Opportunities program or other low-cost flight demonstration options that enable space flight validation. Proposals must advance space logistics and/or robotic manipulation capabilities and must be applicable to one or more of the target applications defined below. Proposals may include planetary surface (Moon and Mars) demonstration but will only be considered if relevance of an orbital flight technology demonstration mission can be demonstrated or surface demos are achievable at NASA funding levels similar to low Earth orbit (LEO) demonstrations. Innovative partnerships are highly encouraged but must include evidence of partner funding viability. In-space logistics systems encompass three primary functions: 1) Delivery systems for transportation of materiel to pre-existing space assets; 2) Aggregation systems for collection, sorting, and temporary storage of materials and components, enabling cost-effective orbital aggregation for robotic operations; 3) Earth-return systems for packaging and returning products, samples, or equipment to Earth, providing independent and more frequent return capability to support commercial market commitments (Note that this subtopic does not solicit reentry system technology, only in-space systems to support reentry via delivery, staging, loading, or other manipulation of return materiel and capsules.) Robotic Manipulation and Autonomous System Architectures: Cost-effective, modular, and versatile robotics solutions may include: 1) Mobile robotic systems: walking/inchworm/climbing robots, rover-based systems, or free-flyers capable of locomotion to enable low-cost manipulation in a workspace much larger than the robots themselves; 2) Multi-degree-of-freedom manipulators, end effectors, and tools: Serial and parallel link robotic systems optimized for space and planetary surface environments; 3) Pick-and-place automation systems: Specialized for material handling and assembly operations; 4) Hybrid and novel configurations: Specialized electromechanical systems designed for specific space applications; 5) Multi-agent systems: Proliferated robotics for cost-effective collaborative operations; 6) Surface-mobile platforms: Robotic systems capable of traversing planetary terrain while manipulating equipment and supplies (Note that this subtopic does not solicit rover technology, but rover-mounted manipulation and logistics systems are in scope.) Target Applications include five key operational areas: 1. In-Space Servicing Operations Delivery and installation of Orbital Replacement Units (ORUs) Propellant transfer and refueling operations Maintenance and upgrade activities on operational spacecraft Removal of derelict spacecraft and rocket bodies Surface mobility asset maintenance and upgrade 2. In-Space Assembly and Construction Operations Delivery, integration, and outfitting of structural components and subsystems Robotic assembly of large platforms, structures, and apertures in space and on planetary surfaces Construction and maintenance of surface infrastructure including landing pads, communication arrays, and power systems 3. Automated Science Operations Glovebox-equivalent robotic manipulation for biological and physical science experiments Robotic support of novel automated experiments Sample handling, processing, and preparation of geological samples and scientific specimens for Earth return Support for commercial LEO scientific operations 4. In-Space Production Support Delivery and management of production consumables Robotic manipulation for manufacturing processes Handling of in-situ analytical tools Automated restocking and material handling Product packaging for Earth return via capsule systems 5. Commercial Platform and Human Spaceflight Support Operations Free-flying robotic systems for routine inspection, inventory management, and workspace setup in orbital and surface environments Intravehicular robotic handling, assembly, and inspection tasks Cooperative human-robot and robot-robot operations Pre-positioning and set up of habitat modules, scientific equipment, and exploration assets prior to crew arrival Cargo handling and inventory management for human exploration missions including unpacking, sorting, and staging of crew supplies Emergency response capabilities for crew support including equipment replacement, repair operations, and evacuation support