PickNik and Blackswan Space Partner to Advance In-Orbit Autonomy and Space Robotics Simulation

When we think about space missions, we often picture rockets and satellites. But the real challenge starts once those satellites are in orbit. How do they navigate, repair themselves, or interact with other spacecraft without constant human input? That’s where autonomy comes in—and why our new partnership with Blackswan Space matters.

Blackswan Space, based in Vilnius, Lithuania and newly established subsidiary in Golden, Colorado, builds software for autonomous space operations. Their Mission Design Simulator (MDS) is a computationally accurate and photo-realistic simulator suited for evaluating a multitude of complex mission scenarios in space including rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO). In short, they’re giving a comprehensive virtual environment where users can prototype and test their entire space mission in-real time using one software package.

PickNik Robotics, based in Boulder, Colorado, is a leader in advanced, real-time safe, and certifiable software control modules for robotic manipulation, with a deep history in the space industry, including its MoveIt software launching to the ISS in 2011. Its flagship product, MoveIt Pro, allows engineering teams to design, simulate, and test complex robotic arm manipulation in the most demanding environments, a capability that is becoming essential for the space industry.

Why this partnership makes sense

Blackswan Space has deep expertise in orbital dynamics and mission planning. As the industry pushes toward more complex in-orbit operations—such as satellite servicing, inspection, and debris removal—there’s growing demand for advanced robotic arm simulation. That’s where PickNik comes in.

With MoveIt Pro, teams can design and test robotic manipulation for the most demanding environments. By working together, PickNik and Blackswan Space are exploring how to bring robotic arms into mission design tools, so customers can simulate future operations more realistically.

What this means for space robotics

The space industry is shifting from single-use satellites to flexible platforms that can upgrade, repair, or refuel already in orbit. Safely planning these missions requires advanced simulation, especially when robotic arms are involved. The PickNik and Blackswan Space partnership is about making those capabilities accessible, so mission designers can experiment, validate, and build confidence before launching hardware into space.

We’re excited to see how this collaboration helps unlock new opportunities for in-orbit servicing and autonomy. Companies are aiming to offer an integrated MDS + Movelt Pro solution to the end users within 6 months from the start of this collaboration