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Website: https://astroscale.com
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Email: [email protected]
4-17-1 Kinshi
Tokyo, Tokyo 130-0013
Astroscale
Develops on-orbit servicing spacecraft for active debris removal (ADR), end-of-life deorbiting, life extension, inspection via Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO). Demonstrated missions include ELSA-d (magnetic docking, prepared/unprepared capture) and ADRAS-J (non-cooperative large debris characterization and imaging). Supports LEO/GEO operations with robotic capture systems.
RobotToday Initiative
Robotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
Auriga Space and U.S. Army Explore Electromagnetic Launchers for Countering Drone Swarms
Auriga Space has entered a three-year Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center (DEVCOM AC) to investigate the potential of electromagnetic launch technology in countering drone swarms. This initiative aims to find a cost-effective alternative to traditional missile interceptors, which have proven expensive in engagements against low-cost drones. The significance of this research lies in the increasing need for modern militaries to address the economic challenges posed by drone warfare. Current missile interceptors can cost hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, creating a cost imbalance when defending against inexpensive drones. The CRADA represents a broader commitment by the Department of War to explore innovative counter-drone technologies that can maintain high engagement rates while reducing operational costs. Looking ahead, Auriga plans to conduct the first outdoor flight test of its transportable electromagnetic launch platform, Hermes, later this summer. This platform is designed for rapid reloads and repeated engagements against multiple targets, potentially offering a new solution to the growing threat of drone swarms. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Anti-drone technology Applications C-UAS Defense Drone News Drone News Feeds
Walden Robotics Emerges with $1.1B Valuation and $300M Funding for General-Purpose Robots
Walden Robotics has officially launched with a valuation of $1.1 billion, backed by $300 million in funding. The company focuses on developing general-purpose robots that continuously learn and improve while performing real-world tasks. Co-founder Dr. Russ Tedrake emphasized the importance of understanding current manufacturing practices to deliver real value to customers. The significance of Walden Robotics lies in its innovative approach to physical AI, which has attracted attention from technology leaders. The company combines large behavior models with practical operations, allowing its robots to handle complex tasks while enhancing human capabilities. This approach aims to create a scalable business model that aligns with existing manufacturing processes. Looking ahead, Walden Robotics is set to expand its deployments, having already transitioned its robots from pilot programs to production tasks at a Toyota plant in North America within two months. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Aerospace Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence / Cognition Automotive Healthcare Robotics Humanoids
Korean Researchers Develop AI Framework for Robot Dog's Adaptive Movement in Complex Terrain
Researchers from Korea have created an AI framework that allows a quadruped robot to autonomously adapt its motor skills while navigating challenging environments. This system enables real-time gait adjustments for traversing forests, climbing stairs, and overcoming obstacles using only onboard sensors and computing capabilities. The significance of this development lies in its potential applications for autonomous search-and-rescue and exploration missions. The Action Pretrained Transformer-based Reinforcement Learning (APT-RL) framework enhances agility by combining pretrained locomotion skills with adaptive decision-making, demonstrating the robot's ability to handle diverse obstacles effectively. Future observations will focus on the framework's deployment in real-world scenarios, as it has already shown impressive performance on KAIST’s quadruped robot, HOUND. The robot's ability to switch between different gaits based on terrain and speed, achieving speeds of up to 6 meters per second, highlights the effectiveness of the APT-RL approach in complex environments. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI and Robotics
Ranger Autonomous Vessel Successfully Completes Sea Trials from Submarine Torpedo Tube
An innovative autonomous surface vessel, the Ranger, has successfully completed its Sea Acceptance Test (SAT) in Germany, demonstrating its ability to be launched from a submarine's torpedo tube. Developed by Gabler and Flanq, the Ranger is designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions with minimal human intervention. The successful completion of the SAT marks a significant milestone for the program, confirming the vessel's seaworthiness and the integration of its core technologies. The Ranger, measuring approximately 15 feet long, features a folding keel and collapsible sensor mast, allowing it to fit within a standard 21-inch torpedo tube. Looking ahead, Gabler will manage the commercialization and integration of the Ranger with submarines, while Flanq will provide advanced maritime technologies and mission software. The companies are also developing a one-way attack variant called Strike, expanding the platform's capabilities for future naval operations.
Military
ROBOTS Secures Seed Funding for Integrated Control Platform Development with NTT Docomo and Incubate Fund
ROBOTS has announced the completion of a seed funding round through third-party allocation from Incubate Fund and NTT Docomo. The startup focuses on developing an integrated control platform for robots that become smarter through on-site operations. The funding will accelerate research and development of this platform and physical AI, particularly for implementation in the security sector. The significance of this development lies in addressing the severe labor shortages in the security industry, where high turnover rates and an aging workforce pose challenges. By integrating various robots and sensors into a cohesive system, ROBOTS aims to enhance operational efficiency and reduce the burden on security personnel. This approach allows for a flexible response to diverse on-site tasks, which is crucial given the unique demands of different environments. Looking ahead, ROBOTS plans to leverage insights gained from security applications to expand into other sectors such as equipment inspection and construction. CEO Koki Kawauchi emphasized the importance of robotics in addressing real-world challenges, aiming for a future where diverse robots work alongside humans seamlessly.
MIT's Susumu Tonegawa, Nobel Laureate in Physiology, Passes Away at 86
Susumu Tonegawa, the Picower Professor of Biology and Neuroscience at MIT, passed away on July 11 at the age of 86. He was a distinguished molecular biologist known for his groundbreaking work in immunology and neuroscience, particularly for discovering how the immune system generates antibody diversity, earning him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1987. Tonegawa's contributions significantly advanced our understanding of both immunology and neuroscience. His research into the mechanisms of memory storage in the brain, specifically through the concept of 'engrams,' has opened new avenues for exploring cognitive functions. His legacy includes over 40 years at MIT, where he also founded the Picower Institute for Learning and Memory. Looking ahead, the impact of Tonegawa's work on immunological therapies and memory research will continue to influence scientific inquiry. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Faculty Obituaries Neuroscience Biology Brain and cognitive sciences Picower Institute
Commercial UAV Expo 2026 to Feature Keynote on FAA and EASA BVLOS Regulations
Commercial UAV Expo has announced its second keynote for the 2026 event, titled 'Two Skies, One Conversation: Comparing FAA and EASA Approaches to BVLOS Drone Operations.' This session will occur on September 3, 2026, the final day of the expo, which runs from September 1-3 at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, NV. The keynote will feature leaders from the FAA and EASA discussing the differences in their regulatory approaches to Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. This conversation is significant as it highlights the evolving landscape of drone regulations on both sides of the Atlantic, providing valuable insights for industry stakeholders. Attendees with various passes, including the Exhibit Hall Only Pass and the Full Conference Pass, will have access to this important discussion. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
BAE Systems Finalizes BATS Counter-Drone Technology Testing in Eight Months
BAE Systems has successfully completed the integration and deployment testing of its Anti Threat System (BATS), a counter-drone technology developed by its Digital Intelligence division. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the development of advanced counter-drone solutions. The completion of BATS testing is crucial as it enhances BAE Systems' capabilities in addressing the growing threat posed by drones in various environments. The technology aims to provide effective countermeasures against potential drone-related risks, thereby ensuring safety and security in critical areas. Looking ahead, industry stakeholders will be keen to observe the deployment of BATS in real-world scenarios and its effectiveness in countering drone threats. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
News
South Korean Researchers Develop AI for Innovative DNA Origami Designs
Researchers from Seoul National University and Hanyang University have created an AI model named Generative SNUPI, which simplifies the design of DNA origami structures. This model allows users to generate complex DNA shapes, such as the Mona Lisa, by considering the chemical properties of DNA, significantly reducing the time and expertise required for design. The development of Generative SNUPI is crucial as traditional DNA origami design is often tedious and expensive, requiring significant expertise. Kyounghwa Jeon, a Ph.D. candidate at SNU, emphasizes that this new tool could enable users to transition directly from concept to physical assembly of DNA structures, enhancing research capabilities in the field. Looking ahead, the researchers aim to improve the flexibility of DNA origami designs to facilitate real-world applications such as drug delivery and immunotherapy. Do-Nyun Kim, an assistant professor at SNU, notes that future work will focus on creating dynamically reconfigurable structures, which are essential for many molecular functions.
Biotechnology Dna-origami Dna Generative-ai
U.S. Army Partners with Auriga Space to Develop Electromagnetic Counter-Drone Technology
The U.S. Army has entered a three-year partnership with Auriga Space to develop electromagnetic (EM) counter-drone technology. This collaboration aims to create a high-speed defense system against enemy Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) using Auriga's innovative propulsion methods, which rely on electricity and magnetic levitation rather than traditional chemical propellants. This partnership is crucial as military forces face the economic challenge of countering inexpensive drones with costly missiles. Current air defense systems struggle to balance effectiveness and affordability, making the development of sustainable counter-drone solutions a top priority. Auriga's EM technology promises to provide a cost-effective alternative, enabling rapid and repeatable launches from a compact system. Looking ahead, both organizations will share expertise and data to refine the EM-based counter-drone technology for field deployment. The focus will be on overcoming the limitations of existing counter-drone methods, with the potential for a significant shift in military air defense strategies. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Military
China vs. The World: A Space Robotics Competitive Analysis
A domain-by-domain competitive benchmark of China versus the international space robotics field — covering on-orbit servicing, lunar ISRU, space station
EXECUTIVE BRIEFING: The 2026 Space Robotics Landscape
Explore the definitive 2026 directory of 95+ space robotics leaders, covering orbital servicing, lunar rovers, and in-space manufacturing. Download the complete RobotToday reference guide to track the companies, funding, and technologies driving the $24B orbital economy.
Space Robot- Building Skyscrapers in Space: ISMA's Industrial Revolution
ISAM technology breaks rocket fairing limits through robotic space manufacturing. Market grows from $3.5B to $14.5B by 2032. See how 3D printing, autonomous assembly, and orbital fabrication are creating off-Earth factories.
Space Robot - Killer App: The $30B Satellite Servicing Market
Orbital servicing is transforming space economics: $2B wasted annually on premature satellite deaths. Market growing from $500M to $20-30B by 2040. Deep dive into Astroscale, Northrop Grumman MEV, and the business of satellite refueling and debris removal.
Space Robotics: The 2026 Breakout
Space robotics transforms in 2026 as Starship cuts launch costs 96%, AI enables autonomy, and satellite servicing demand explodes. The breakout year explained.
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