Robotics

NASA uses robotic systems to explore other planets and objects in our solar system as precursors to crewed missions, assist astronauts on the International Space Station, study the universe, and much more. This also includes autonomous systems that enable robotics, spacecraft and aircraft to operate in a dynamic environment independent of external control.

Quick Facts

Our Cooperative Autonomous Distributed Robotic Exploration (CADRE) project is developing a network of shoe-box-sized mobile robots that could enable future autonomous robotic exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

NASA’s Ingenuity Mars Helicopter has completed 51 flights since first taking to the Martian skies on April 19, 2021. The helicopter flies on its own, without human control. It must take off, fly, and land, with minimal commands from Earth sent in advance.

Mission and Impact

NASA seeks to improve our ability to access and travel through space; land more mass in more locations throughout the solar system; live and work in deep space and on planetary bodies; build next generation air vehicles, and transform the ability to observe the universe and answer profound questions in earth and space sciences.

Learn More about Mission and Impact