As Lisa Denzer, ESA’s AI Lab lead, explains, “We aim to make space exploration more efficient and achievable by integrating AI across all mission phases, from astronaut training to autonomous systems on rovers, in mission operations, and on other planets.”
Pushing boundaries with AI
The AI Lab is part of a larger team exploring advanced technologies like robotics, quantum computing, and extended reality (XR) at ESA’s European Astronaut Centre in Cologne, Germany. Its core mission is to use AI to optimise decision-making, streamline operations, and tackle the challenges of deep-space missions.
For example, AI plays a transformative role in astronaut training through XR technologies such as augmented and virtual reality. AI models enhance these tools by creating rich, realistic simulations, helping astronauts to train in environments that closely mimic space conditions. Similarly, digital twins –virtual representations of spacecraft or mission environments –are helping teams refine mission planning, manage risks, and maintain spacecraft systems.
ESA project astronaut Sławosz Uznański training using virtual reality at the European Astronaut Centre in Cologne, Germany. Credit: ESA
“AI is indispensable for future exploration. It allows spacecraft and rovers to navigate, land, and operate autonomously,” says Lisa. This is especially vital for missions to Mars, where communication delays make real-time decision-making from Earth impractical.
Tackling space challenges
Space exploration poses unique hurdles for AI systems, from harsh environmental conditions to strict size, weight, and power constraints. Advanced AI requires high-performance processors, but these must be adapted to survive radiation and extreme temperatures. ESA collaborates with industry partners to develop resilient, compact, and energy-efficient AI hardware for space missions.
Testing AI under space-like conditions also presents challenges, as space can’t be fully replicated on Earth. To bridge this gap, ESA leverages facilities like the new LUNA analogue facility to validate prototypes before deployment. to validate prototypes before deployment.
An astronaut and robot dog Spot in the LUNA facility. Credit: ESA/DLR
Transformative solutions for human and robotic exploration
In low Earth orbit, the Lab is piloting AI solutions on the International Space Station to optimise operations. One notable innovation is the development of large language models—advanced computer systems that can connect ideas, understand questions, and provide clear, concise answers. These models function like a sophisticated search engine, such as ChatGPT, that simplify access to dense technical documentation for flight controllers. This tool significantly reduces response times, ensuring critical information is available at a moment’s notice.
Looking ahead, these systems will support operations on the lunar Gateway and Moon surface missions, where reduced communication with Earth calls for greater autonomy. In robotic exploration, AI will empower missions like the Rosalind Franklin rover to autonomously navigate the martian terrain, identify scientific targets and adapt to challenges without waiting for ground commands.
The ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover. Credit: ESA/Mlabspace
Shaping the future of space exploration
The future of space exploration will rely on AI development, and ESA’s AI Lab is ready to make it happen. A key focus is making AI systems more reliable, ensuring they can perform accurately and effectively without error. This includes developing smarter systems that adapt to changing mission conditions, managing tasks like anomaly detection and system monitoring.
ESA’s Columbus Control Centre, or Col-CC, located at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) facility in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany. Credit: ESA
AI is also becoming a more valuable partner for astronauts. By developing systems that can understand emotions and interact naturally, AI will not only help with technical tasks but also provide psychological support to astronauts during long missions. At the same time, making AI hardware smaller, lighter, and more energy-efficient will ensure it meets the strict demands of space travel.
As Lisa notes, “AI is reshaping how we explore space, enhancing safety, efficiency, and autonomy.” From managing complex missions in low Earth orbit to enabling autonomy on the Moon and Mars, the Lab’s pioneering AI innovations are paving the way for humanity’s next giant leap.
This is just the beginning
Join us for SpaceCHI 4.0 on 23–24 June 2025 at ESA’s European Astronaut Centre and dive deeper into the future of Human-Computer Interaction in space.
Submit your papers by 31 March 2025 and help shape the future of space exploration!
For more information, visit: SpaceCspacechi.media.mit.edu/#