Russia has been the first in the world to patent a technology for servicing orbital stations using specialized robots. These autonomous systems are expected to become the basis for the future Russian Orbital Station (ROS).
The “drone-platform” is a fully robotized station designed to operate without constant crew involvement. The robots will perform diagnostics, minor repairs, and maintenance, reducing risks and allowing cosmonauts to focus on science. From 2027 to 2033, the phased launch of ROS modules is planned to test the robots in real microgravity conditions. After that, the technologies will be used in the lunar program, where automation is especially important due to the high cost and risks.
And who knows—maybe within the next few years, the “duty” on orbit won’t be a cosmonaut, but a robot quietly fixing equipment and saving oxygen, time, and millions of dollars.
