Australia Establishes SpAARC to Advance Space Robotics and AI Control

Australia has taken a decisive step toward strengthening its space capabilities with the creation of a new high-technology facility in Western Australia. The Australian Space Agency (ASA), recently established by the federal government, has entered into a strategic partnership with Fugro to deliver the Australian Space Automation, Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Control Complex — known as SpAARC.

Supported by additional investment from the Western Australian State Government, the complex is designed to become a national hub for space robotics command and control. It will provide infrastructure and technical capability enabling start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises, and research institutions to manage robotic systems operating beyond Earth, including in-orbit satellite servicing.

Fugro was selected following a competitive evaluation that recognized its advanced expertise in remote operations and robotics management in demanding offshore environments. The company’s long-standing experience in controlling complex robotic systems through satellite communications in harsh marine conditions demonstrated precisely the resilience and precision required for space-based applications. That operational heritage underpins SpAARC’s mission to extend robust remote-control technologies into the space domain.

The establishment of the facility is expected to catalyze private investment in Australia’s domestic space sector. Beyond immediate infrastructure benefits, the project is positioned to create expanded opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. It will also open new and diversified career pathways in automation, robotics, and digital technologies. As advanced space infrastructure matures, employment growth is anticipated not only within the space industry itself but also across adjacent sectors as innovations are transferred and commercialized more rapidly.

Dr Megan Clark AC, Head of the Australian Space Agency, emphasized that the complex will accelerate research and development in remote asset management systems tailored for space applications. She noted that Fugro’s global leadership in offshore positioning, inspection, monitoring, and seabed mapping services reflects capabilities that translate effectively into space robotics control. According to Dr Clark, the development of SpAARC will generate high-technology employment in automation and robotics, while simultaneously strengthening industries such as mining, agriculture, emergency response, and maritime surveillance through cross-sector technology integration.

Fugro’s Chief Executive Officer, Mark Heine, described the collaboration as a project of significant national value. He highlighted the company’s recent digital transformation, which has centered on expanding remote and autonomous operations supported by artificial intelligence. Participation in SpAARC, he explained, provides an opportunity to extend Fugro’s satellite positioning and remote operational expertise into the emerging field of space robotics, building upon capabilities refined over years of innovation.

Financial backing for the initiative was awarded through the Australian Space Agency’s Space Infrastructure Fund under the Robotics, Automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Command and Control Centre grant program. This targeted funding mechanism aims to enhance Australia’s sovereign space infrastructure and strengthen advanced technological capacity.

Fugro is recognized globally as a leader in Geo-data services, specializing in the collection and interpretation of detailed information about the Earth and the built environment. By integrating data acquisition, advanced analysis, and strategic advisory services, the company delivers comprehensive solutions for clients. Its strengths in site characterization and asset integrity management support the safe, sustainable, and efficient planning, construction, and operation of infrastructure assets throughout their lifecycle.

With approximately 10,000 employees operating across 61 countries, Fugro maintains a substantial international footprint. The majority of its work serves the energy and infrastructure markets, both offshore and onshore. In 2019, the company reported revenues of EUR 1.6 billion and is publicly traded on Euronext Amsterdam.