Chinese firm launches effort to send humanoid robot into space

Engine AI aims to make its PM01 robot the first humanoid astronaut.Engine AI has partnered with Chinese commercial space company Interstellar to formally launch this initiative.(Engine AI's PM01 humanoid robot. Image credit: Engine AI)Chinese humanoid robot manufacturer Engine AI has launched efforts to send its product into space, aiming to create a humanoid robot astronaut.The Shenzhen-based company announced Monday that it has partnered with Chinese commercial space company Beijing Interstellar Human Spaceflight Technology to formally initiate the program.Engine AI aims to make its PM01 robot the first humanoid astronaut. The robot integrates high-precision environmental sensing modules, millisecond-level motion response mechanisms, and autonomous decision-making algorithms, according to the company. Join us on Telegram or Google News Engine AI noted that space exploration missions impose extreme demands on robotic performance stability, environmental adaptability, and autonomous decision-making capabilities — far exceeding terrestrial scenarios — due to harsh conditions like vacuum, microgravity, extreme temperature fluctuations, and intense radiation.Engine AI said it will collaborate with Interstellor to enhance PM01's space environment adaptability and mission execution capabilities.(Image credit: Engine AI)Humanoid robots are emerging as another rapidly developing sector in China following electric vehicles (EVs).US market research firm IDC said in a report last week that the global humanoid robot market experienced rapid growth in 2025, with shipments reaching about 18,000 units for the full year.Last year's humanoid robot sales totaled around $440 million, marking a 508% year-on-year increase, with Chinese manufacturers dominating the market, according to IDC.Multiple Chinese automakers have announced their entry into the humanoid robotics sector, showcasing prototypes at last year's Shanghai auto show.Earlier this month, Xpeng (NYSE: XPEV, HKG: 9868) announced completion of its first ET1 robot prototype developed to automotive standards. Musk on Xpeng's Iron humanoid robot: 'Tesla and China companies will dominate the market' "Other companies in the West are weak," Musk said.