R2-D2’s Cousins: Robotic Companions in the Final Frontier

Uyên Nguyễn Cao Thục (), Vasiliki Vrana () and Subhankar Das ()
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Uyên Nguyễn Cao Thục: Duy Tan University
Vasiliki Vrana: School of Economics and Administration, The campus of Serres, International Hellenic University
Subhankar Das: Duy Tan University

A chapter in Pioneering the New Space Economy through AI and Immersive Technologies, 2025, pp 129-149 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract A robotic travel companion to expand the universe of narrative exploration of space and tourism would revolutionize how we experience interplanetary adventures through immersive storytelling. It traces the progression of space robotics, starting with primitive probes and ending with sophisticated spacecraft and alignment systems like NASA’s Perseverance rover and artificial-intelligence-enhanced counterparts like Crew Interactive Mobile Companion (CIMON), discussing their operational, scientific, and psychological advantages. Robotic systems increase the efficiency of the mission, reduce risks, and can provide essential support in extreme environments. Yet there are challenges to overcome, like working under communication-lagged conditions, surviving harsh environmental conditions, and facing ethical challenges related to ranking the robots and AI’s accountability and rights systems. This chapter highlights the perspective of human-robot co-working, stress, as well as ergonomic and psychological health aspects. Discussion points include hyper-autonomous systems, biomimetic robots, self-replicating technologies, ethical frameworks, and equitable access to resources outside the atmosphere. Thus, this study synthesizes diverse perspectives from engineering literature, artificial intelligence, psychology, and moral debate to propose robotic companions as crucial partners in humanity’s cosmos expansion and inspire safety, creativity, and sustainable exploration.

Keywords: Robotic companions; Space exploration; Space tourism; Human-robot interaction; Ethical AI in space robotics; AI tourism (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/978-981-96-5977-7_7

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