Overview
On October 16, 2026, Muks Robotics, a Pune‑based humanoid robotics company, announced that it has secured a project with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to develop SPACEO Prime, described as India’s first humanoid space worker. The collaboration is positioned as a milestone for the Indian space economy, aiming to create intelligent robots capable of operating in the demanding environment of space missions.
Company Background and Vision
Muks Robotics focuses on building humanoid robots and Physical AI systems that can perceive their surroundings, understand instructions and execute tasks in real‑world settings. The company’s long‑term ambition to build humanoids for both Earth and space was first articulated by its founder and CEO, Dr. Mukesh Bangar, in 2021. In 2023, the firm released a video outlining its mission, vision and the development of the SPACEO platform, which now serves as the technical foundation for the ISRO project. Dr. Bangar, a self‑taught AI and robotics engineer, stated that true freedom from pain and suffering could be achieved through self‑sustaining autonomous robots and that the time is right to deploy conscious, intelligent robots to other planets.
Project Significance and Alignment with National Initiatives
The SPACEO Prime project aligns with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India and Viksit Bharat 2047 initiatives, reinforcing the country’s push for self‑reliance, innovation and indigenous technological advancement in advanced robotics, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. By developing an indigenous humanoid for space, Muks Robotics contributes to the nation’s broader vision of transforming India into a developed nation by the centenary of its independence.
Technical Challenges and Potential Applications
Creating a space‑oriented humanoid entails addressing challenges beyond conventional robotics, including mobility, manipulation, autonomy and reliability under space‑specific conditions such as micro‑gravity, radiation and extreme temperatures. If validated, the humanoid’s articulated arms and human‑like structure could enable it to manipulate objects, handle tools and interact with existing infrastructure designed for human use. Potential applications cited include equipment inspection, maintenance assistance, material handling and other repetitive or hazardous tasks, which could reduce astronaut exposure to risk and support mission operations. The release notes that these possibilities depend on engineering validation and mission requirements and are not yet confirmed operational capabilities of SPACEO Prime.
Future Outlook
Muks Robotics views the SPACEO Prime effort as a step toward broader ambitions that may eventually extend to lunar and Martian missions. The company continues to pursue practical Earth‑based humanoid applications while building the technological foundations required for future extraterrestrial work.
Disclaimer: The above press release is provided under an arrangement with PNN. PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the content.