The Australian Space Agency’s Robotics and Automation on Earth and in Space Roadmap outlined a 10-year plan to support growth of robotics and automation capabilities on Earth and in space. This plan was published before May 2022 under the previous Australian Government.

Overview

Australia’s remote operation capabilities have huge potential for the future of space exploration. The Robotics Roadmap described a pathway to:

  • leverage Australia’s expertise in robotics technology and systems
  • provide critical solutions into the global marketplace that enable and support the sustained build-up of space assets and infrastructure
  • enable international collaboration with industry. 

Publication content 

The following 6 focus segments prioritised in the Robotics Roadmap, were considered the areas of greatest opportunity for the Australian space sector:

  1. Remote operations
  2. Interoperability
  3. Analogue facilities and services
  4. Robotic platforms
  5. In-Situ Resource utilisation
  6. Foundation services.

Foundation Services 

Foundation Services are operational services that support exploration missions to build towards (and eventually maintain) a sustained off-Earth presence. They are services for which demand is recurrent, continuous or enduring. The scope of Foundation Services covers monitoring and inspection, planning and logistics, civil construction, materials transport and cargo handling, remote maintenance, salvage, and component manufacture and assembly. They are distinctive but complementary to mission critical systems such as power, communications and life support.

Foundation Services fulfil a set of core supportive processes and systems that are necessary in planning, establishing and sustaining planetary activity. These services provide core functions that are required during every stage of off-Earth infrastructure build-up. Australia can use its capabilities to realise a long-term flagship role in Foundation Services.

The latest from the Australian space sector

Eris Test Flight 1 being launched from Bowen Orbital Spaceport in Nort Queenland. This moment marked the First launch attempt of an Aussie made rocket.

First launch attempt of Aussie made rocket

NEWS • Industry growth

30 July 2025

Eris Test Flight 1 took place at Gilmour’s Bowen Orbital Spaceport at Abbot Point in North Queensland this morning.

Read more
Headshots of two students Kaila Elias and Hayley Yousef

Aussie students' experiment to be tested in space by an astronaut

NEWS • Inspire

30 July 2025

The unique opportunity will occur as part of the Asian Try Zero-G competition, which is delivered by One Giant Leap Australia and supported by the Australian Space Agency and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.

Read more
A digital poster for an event

National Science Week 2025: Special opportunities to see space up close

NEWS • Inspire

28 July 2025

STEM and space enthusiasts of all ages will have numerous opportunities to 'Decode the Universe', including an exclusive online event with Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg.

Read more
Australian Prime Minister the Hon Anthony Albanese MP along with a team member from Gilmour Space Technologies

Gilmour receives funding boost from Australian Government

NEWS • Industry growth

25 July 2025

The Queensland-based space firm has received $5 million to accelerate the development of its next-generation liquid rocket engine.

Read more
A group of people

Space talk: Edward Robinson

NEWS • People in the sector

25 July 2025

How does it feel to be one of the youngest CEOs in the Australian space sector?

Read more
A rocket being launched from a site

Skykraft 4 mission a milestone for space-enabled Air Traffic Management network

NEWS • Space activities

24 July 2025

Australian company's satellites were launched into orbit with SpaceX, joining Skykraft's growing constellation to transform air traffic control.

Read more

Our department recognises the First Peoples of this Nation and their ongoing cultural and spiritual connections to the lands, waters, seas, skies, and communities.

We Acknowledge First Nations Peoples as the Traditional Custodians and Lore Keepers of the oldest living culture and pay respects to their Elders past and present. We extend that respect to all First Nations Peoples.