Servicing or reconfiguring spacecraft in orbit takes more than a robotic arm. Tools and modules must also be docked, released and reconnected reliably. In our Space Tech Expo Europe 2025 interview, Matthieu Deremetz, Team Lead for Robotics, Mechanisms and Structures at Space Applications Services, introduces technologies designed for these tasks.
The interview begins with HOTDOCK, an androgynous mating interface for repeated connection and disconnection of robotic and spacecraft systems. A single interface transfers mechanical loads, electrical power and data, with optional thermal transfer. This enables tools or spacecraft modules to be attached and exchanged without requiring a separate connection mechanism for each function.
Deremetz also presents the Walking Manipulator. Its baseline design is a symmetrical robotic arm with seven joints and HOTDOCK-compatible end effectors. It is designed to relocate between suitable attachment points on a spacecraft, supporting inspection, manipulation and reconfiguration tasks. The manufacturer describes this as an on-orbit servicing concept, not as proof of completed flight operations.
For ground-based development, Space Applications Services demonstrates MOGOS, a mobile gravity-offloading system used to simulate reduced-gravity conditions during robotic testing. Deremetz also introduces LUVMI-X, a modular lunar rover platform being developed for exploration and payload mobility.
These systems address different engineering challenges: making and breaking connections in orbit, testing robotic movement on Earth, and providing mobility on the lunar surface. The actual qualification and operational status must be assessed for each system individually.
Space Applications Services is exhibiting independently at Space Tech Expo Europe in Bremen, 17–19 November 2026. Visit the team at Booth S20 to discuss HOTDOCK, robotic servicing and ground-testing solutions.
Our extended team, with colleagues from MSA Components and Hi-Rel Solutions by Steliau Technology, will separately be available in Hall 5, Booth F11 for technical questions about high-reliability electronics and space projects.
PERSONAL CONSULTATION
From component selection to design-in: our sales team advises you in person, by phone, video call or on site. We will set aside 30 minutes for you.
PERSÖNLICHE BERATUNG
Von der Bauteilauswahl bis zum Design-in: Unser Vertriebsteam berät Sie persönlich, telefonisch, per Videokonferenz oder vor Ort. Wir nehmen uns 30 Minuten Zeit.