We begin today looking at one of the most overlooked challenges in space: astronaut time. NASA estimates a single crew hour in orbit can cost more than $150,000, yet much of that time still goes to unpacking cargo, moving supplies, and routine maintenance.

A new startup, Icarus, wants to change that. They’re developing adaptable, AI-enabled robots that can handle the repetitive and risky tasks—so astronauts can focus on science, exploration, and the work that actually pushes us forward. I recently had the chance to speak with the two founders of Icarus, Ethan Barajas and Jamie Palmer.

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