Robotics and the future of on-orbit labor

In this episode, SpaceNews' Mike Gruss interviews Icarus Robotics CEO and co-founder Ethan Barajas at the 2026 Small Satellite Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. They discuss why astronauts have compared space missions to working in a warehouse, recent progress toward robotic systems that can offload menial tasks during missions, and the future of on-orbit labor. This episode is sponsored by FrontGrade. 👉 See more episodes in the Space Minds playlist About Space Minds Space Minds is a new audio and video podcast from SpaceNews that focuses on the inspiring leaders, technologies and exciting opportunities in space. This weekly podcast features compelling interviews with scientists, founders and experts who love to talk about space, covers the news that has enthusiasts daydreaming, and engages with listeners. Join David Ariosto, Mike Gruss and journalists from the SpaceNews team for new episodes every Thursday. Space Minds Podcast ⁠https://spacenews.com/space-minds-podcast/ Sign up for a SpaceNews newsletter ⁠https://spacenews.com/newsletters/⁠