Icarus Robotics, an Ireland co-founded space technology start-up, is sending its robots on a test mission aboard the International Space Station in a deal with Voyager Technologies, with demonstration scheduled for early 2027, according to Silicon Republic.

The test will focus on validating autonomous navigation, manoeuvrability and operational performance of the free-flying robotic platform Joyride in a live space station environment.

Co-founded in 2024 by Ethan Barajas and County Tyrone-born Jamie Palmer, Icarus builds a robot labour force for space with the ultimate goal of relieving astronauts from repetitive, time-consuming and menial tasks. The start-up develops a fan-propelled robot with arms fitted with grippers for unpacking and stowing cargo rather than pursuing a humanoid model.

Matt Magaña, president of space, defence and national security at Voyager, said: "Icarus Robotics represents the next generation of space builders and provides the turnkey solution for those seeking reliable, flight-proven access to space." The company's mission management service helps companies move from ideas to proven flight heritage.

Voyager will oversee payload integration, safety certification, launch coordination, on-orbit operations planning and real-time mission execution support. The company has managed more than 1,400 space missions to date across government and commercial sectors.

Palmer, 25, who grew up in County Tipperary, told RTÉ News that Icarus is currently in a testing phase, with the goal of getting its robots onto the International Space Station next year.

The New York-headquartered start-up raised $6.1 million (€5.12 million) in a seed round last September. The raise was led by Soma Capital and Xtal, with participation from Nebular, Massive Tech Ventures and others. The upcoming mission underscores commercial market demand for business activities in low Earth orbit.

Explore details on the International Space Station test mission and robotic platform capabilities in the complete report.