# NASA Tests AI Robot for Deep-Space Missions

NASA and Google Public Sector are testing a proof-of-concept robotic assistant for routine operations and medical-task support on future deep-space missions, where communication delays can limit real-time help from Earth. In initial laboratory demonstrations, the robot located and moved a medical bag successfully in 85% of trials. The effort is not an announced contract or solicitation, and no contract value or procurement timeline was reported.

- The demonstration points to potential future demand for autonomous robotics, AI, edge computing, and crew health-support capabilities in NASA’s Artemis and human-spaceflight programs.
- Contractors with relevant technologies can assess how their robotics, AI, and medical-support capabilities align with NASA’s human-spaceflight technology needs; this proof of concept does not establish a current bid opportunity.
- The system is intended to assist astronauts with physical tasks, not replace human medical decision-making, which may shape requirements for human oversight and operational safety.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Information Technology, Healthcare
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Services
**Published:** October 30, 2026

### Government Entities
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
- NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC)
- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)
- NASA Human Research Program (HRP)

### Vendors
- Google Public Sector (Robotic system developer)
- Physical Intelligence (Developer of the Pi0 model used in the demonstration)
- Google Cloud (Cloud infrastructure provider for model fine-tuning)

### Key Quotes
> For instance, the robot might be directed to assist with routine health monitoring — such as capturing basic vitals or simple ultrasounds — under the strict guidance of a human crew medical officer. This ensures astronauts receive the physical assistance they might not be able to perform by themselves, without ever replacing human decision-making.
> — Jim Kelly, Vice President of Federal Sales at Google Public Sector

### Sources
- [NASA, Google test AI-powered medical robot for deep space missions - Nextgov/FCW](https://www.nextgov.com/emerging-tech/2026/10/nasa-google-test-ai-powered-medical-robot-deep-space-missions/416874) - Nextgov/FCW
- [Google Public Sector, NASA Test Robotic Space Assistant](https://www.executivebiz.com/articles/google-public-sector-nasa-test-robotic-assistant-deep-space-missions) - ExecutiveBiz