Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Neil McHenry is a leading researcher at the intersection of extended reality (XR), robotics, and space exploration. His work focuses on solving critical challenges in human-machine interaction for off-world operations, particularly in high-latency and low-visibility environments like the lunar surface. McHenry’s major contributions include developing predictive XR telepresence systems that enable precise robotic control despite significant communication delays—a key enabler for Lunar base assembly and maintenance. He also created *UnrealNavigation*, an integrated simulation platform for rapidly testing SLAM algorithms in virtual reality, which has become a valuable tool for autonomous navigation research. His work on adaptive navigation for the lunar South Pole uses deep learning and holographic telepresence to overcome extreme lighting conditions and permanently shadowed regions. With over 40 citations across his most-cited papers, McHenry’s research has direct implications for NASA’s Artemis program and future human-robotic missions. His 2024 paper on immersive technologies for lunar surface simulations further underscores his role in advancing training and evaluation methods for astronauts. McHenry’s innovative fusion of VR, AI, and teleoperation is shaping the future of space exploration.