GITAI gets a grip with space robotics in simulated regolith chamber

GITAI, the Japanese and US space robotics startup, has highlighted the successful demonstration of its Lunar Manipulator and Rover in a simulated regolith chamber.

The company’s inchworm-type robotic arm equipped with a tool changer function and its Lunar Robotic Rover were tested in the chamber. The robots executed all planned tasks, as shown in the video below.

Tasks included sampling regolith using the backhoe tool, sampling stones using the gripper tool, an inchworm arm walking demonstration and a rover locomotion demonstration.

The company’s avowed aim is to provide, through the use of robotics, “safe and affordable labor in space and reduce operational costs by 100 times”.

Funding

Last month, Gitai completed a Series B Extension round of funding for ¥4 billion yen (approximately $30 million) to help expand business development in the US.

Specifically, the company said the funds raised would be used to expand its Engineering Model/Flight Model Manufacturing Facilities in the country, and improve the “Technology Readiness Level” of its Lunar Robotic Rover and Lunar Inchworm Type Robotic Arm.

“We are thrilled to further expand our operations in the US,” said Sho Nakanose, GITAI’s Founder & CEO, at the time. “While SpaceX and BlueOrigin are reducing the cost of transportation to space by 100 times, we at GITAI are taking on the challenge of reducing labor costs by 100 times. We will provide the most labor for the Moon and Mars and build infrastructure such as solar panels, communication antennas, fuel generators, and habitation modules.”

Investors included Global Brain CVC Funds, DCI Venture Growth Fund, The Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company and ANRI III Investment Limited Partnership.