Steve Chien

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About

Steve Chien is a pioneering researcher in the field of artificial intelligence for space exploration, with groundbreaking contributions to autonomous systems, planning, and scheduling for robotic missions. His work sits at the intersection of AI and aerospace engineering, focusing on enabling spacecraft and robotic systems to operate with greater independence from human operators — a critical capability for deep space exploration where communication delays make real-time control impractical. Among his most notable recent contributions is his leadership on NASA's Cooperative Autonomous Distributed Robotic Exploration (CADRE) mission, which aims to demonstrate multi-agent autonomous exploration of the lunar surface and sub-surface. Slated for deployment to the Moon's Reiner Gamma region in 2025/2026, CADRE represents a landmark achievement in coordinated robotic autonomy, deploying a team of three robots and a base station to collaboratively investigate extraterrestrial terrain without direct human guidance. Chien's research has shaped how NASA designs and operates autonomous systems across multiple missions, cementing his reputation as a foundational figure in space AI. His work continues to push the boundaries of what robotic explorers can accomplish independently, laying essential groundwork for future crewed and uncrewed missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.