# Caltech payload demonstrates robotic truss assembly in orbit

_Published Friday, November 13, 2026 at 1:06 PM EST · Robotics · Latest · Tier 2 — Notable_

![Caltech payload demonstrates robotic truss assembly in orbit — Primary](https://spectrum.ieee.org/media-library/image.png?id=68673117&width=1200&height=600&coordinates=0%2C120%2C0%2C120)

A California Institute of Technology payload built a truss structure from individual components in orbit under DARPA's NOM4D program, IEEE Spectrum reported. The program described it as the first demonstration of automated assembly in space.

A gantry robot moving along three linear axes connected composite truss members with custom joints while deploying a thin reflective mesh. The demonstration was a proof of concept for future space-based antennas.

## Sources

- [IEEE Spectrum](https://spectrum.ieee.org/video-friday-moon-rover-promise)

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Canonical: https://techandbusiness.org/newswire/2xim4HOprd5fGR-DjFHOck
Published: 2026-11-13T18:06:13.334Z
Story chronology: 2026-11-13T17:30:03.000Z
Retrieved: 2026-11-13T20:05:21.040Z
Publisher: Tech & Business (techandbusiness.org)