Space robotics company GITAI, headquartered in the United States, has announced that its Japanese subsidiary, GITAI Japan Inc. has secured a contract from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to undertake a concept study for a robotic arm system intended for use on a crewed, pressurised lunar rover.
This initiative forms part of Japan’s contribution to NASA’s Artemis programme, which aims to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon, particularly in its polar regions.
The concept study will focus on defining the design and specifications of a robotic arm system capable of supporting scientific operations during uncrewed phases of the lunar rover’s deployment.
The arm is also expected to assist astronauts during crewed missions when required.
Designed to execute a wide range of mission-critical tasks, the robotic arm will be responsible for operations such as excavating lunar regolith, collecting rock and soil samples, unloading and installing large payloads — including scientific instruments — and supporting observation activities.
The system will function through both autonomous and remote control, thereby enhancing the scope and duration of lunar surface research.
The JAXA contract adds to GITAI’s previous milestones which include; ISS demonstrations; low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite validation; lunar readiness; and US expansion.
Achievements and innovations in warehouse automation across retail and e-commerce, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, automotive, transport and logistics, and more will be celebrated at the third annual Robotics & Automation Awards on 29 October 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.roboticsandautomationawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s robotics and automation sectors!
