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DLR: Robotics in Space—An Opportunity for German and European Sovereignty

September 14, 2026. On September 10, 2026, the Parliamentary Group on Aerospace met for an informational lunch at the German Bundestag. The focus was on robotics as a key technology and the associated opportunities for the technological sovereignty of Germany and Europe. The event was organized by the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in collaboration with the Aerospace Forum. Stéphane Beemelmans and Prof. Alin Albu-Schäffer discussed with the participants the diverse applications of robotics in space exploration and industry.

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From left: Prof. Alin Albu-Schäffer, Director of the DLR Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics; Klaus-Peter Willsch, Member of the German Bundestag and Chair of the Parliamentary Group on Aviation and Space; Stéphane Beemelmans, Deputy Chairman of the DLR Executive Board. Photo: DLR

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Robotics in Space 

Space is a real-world test for robotics. Where humans reach their limits, robots can take over tasks: They operate under extreme conditions, reach hard-to-access locations, and reduce the risks for human missions. Robotic technologies are already being used today for in-orbit servicing. Albu-Schäffer demonstrated to the members of parliament how these assembly, maintenance, and repair tasks in orbit extend the service life of satellites and other artificial objects. 

Robotics also plays a key role in the exploration of other planets and moons. The first European lunar lander, Argonaut, is planned to carry a fully robotic payload, which is to be developed primarily under German leadership. To this end, the DLR is developing technologies across the entire spectrum of robotic spaceflight. 

The technologies developed for spaceflight serve as drivers of innovation on Earth and find direct application in aviation and transportation, medical technology, Industry 4.0, disaster relief, and personal assistance. The systematic transfer of research findings to industry is crucial in this context. The DLR can play a special role here, serving as a bridge between research and application, and between technological excellence and societal benefit.

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Related Links

👉 www.dlr.de  

Photo: DLR

Contact info

Silicon Saxony

Marketing, Kommunikation und Öffentlichkeitsarbeit

Manfred-von-Ardenne-Ring 20 F

Telefon: +49 351 8925 886

redaktion@silicon-saxony.de