Melbourne startup Element Robotics is heading to the stars, virtually at least, with its selection as a finalist in Australia’s first dedicated AI and robotics accelerator, Propel-AIR.
One of just six teams chosen nationwide, Element Robotics will now compete for a coveted spot in a one-month residency at MassRobotics in Boston — widely considered the global heart of robotics innovation and home to names like iRobot, MIT and Boston Dynamics.
Their golden ticket? A product called LunarSim — a simulation-as-a-service platform built to train, test, and troubleshoot lunar missions before a single bolt is launched into space.
A digital twin of the Moon (and your robot)
Founded by former Royal Australian Air Force Engineering Officer Tenzin Crouch, Element Robotics is aiming to solve one of the most persistent challenges in space robotics: testing in a zero-failure environment.
“Think of it as a digital twin of both the Moon and the robot you’re planning to send,” said Crouch. “You can simulate terrain, physics, and behaviours to verify your system before you ever leave the ground.”
Built in response to the limitations of current in-house lunar simulation tools — which are often patched together from open-source software for one-off missions — LunarSim is designed to be modular, scalable and high-fidelity. And as mission assurance becomes increasingly important for space agencies and private operators alike, the commercial potential is vast.
“Without simulation, you’re stuck relying on costly physical testing that slows innovation. LunarSim gives teams the ability to iterate and validate far faster — and at a fraction of the cost,” said Crouch.
From the Moon to the mine
While LunarSim is rooted in space, the implications reach far beyond Earth’s orbit. Element Robotics is already exploring terrestrial use cases for its tech — from modelling underground mines and offshore rigs to testing robotic systems for remote operations in Australia’s harshest environments.
“Space might be the frontier, but the problems are similar,” said Crouch. “Low connectivity, dangerous conditions, high costs of failure — these are shared across sectors. Whether you’re exploring the Moon or drilling kilometres below the surface, you need the same kind of digital infrastructure.”
And there’s traction to prove it.
The team has secured funding through the Australian Government’s Moon to Mars Supply Chain Capability Improvement Grant. Their MVP (minimum viable product) is scheduled for delivery by March 2026. Propel-AIR, backed by Stone & Chalk and supported by government and industry partners, is helping the company refine its commercial model and unlock broader opportunities across both aerospace and industrial markets.
Robotics-as-a-service — with lunar ambitions
Element’s vision is bold but grounded: enable the next generation of robotic fleets — both in orbit and on Earth — with high-fidelity simulation at the core.
Use cases include:
- Software validation for space robotics
- Operator training in simulated lunar or terrestrial environments
- AI perception testing through synthetic datasets
- Risk mitigation and scenario planning for harsh environments
It’s not hard to see the long game. As lunar exploration picks up pace — with NASA, the European Space Agency and private players eyeing Moon landings in the next decade — support infrastructure like LunarSim will become essential.
“Eventually, we’ll see fleets of autonomous robots operating on the Moon,” said Crouch. “We’re building the tools to make sure those systems are tested, trained, and mission-ready.”
The Boston opportunity
Should Element Robotics win Propel-AIR, the prize is more than just a ticket to Boston — it’s a launchpad to the world.
The MassRobotics residency includes access to labs, hardware, and connections with some of the world’s most influential players in robotics, AI, and deep tech. It’s a chance to sharpen the product, meet investors, and plug into global markets.
For Crouch and his team, it’s also validation.
“This isn’t just about one startup or one sprint. It’s about putting Australia on the map for space robotics. We have the talent, the tech, and the vision. Now it’s time to scale.”
About Element Robotics
Melbourne-based Element Robotics develops simulation tools for advanced robotic systems. Their flagship platform, LunarSim, enables testing and training in digital lunar environments — reducing the cost and risk of robotic missions. With applications across aerospace, mining, and remote operations, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of simulation-as-a-service for high-risk industries.
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