China deploys first AI chatbot on space station, inspired by the Monkey King

China has deployed Wukong AI, an artificial intelligence chatbot designed specifically for space operations, aboard its Tiangong space station in mid-July. Named after the legendary Monkey King from Chinese mythology, the system represents the first time China’s space station has utilized a large language model during orbital missions, marking a significant step in integrating AI technology into human spaceflight operations.

What you should know: Wukong AI successfully completed its inaugural mission by supporting three taikonauts during a complex six-and-a-half-hour spacewalk in August.

• The AI assisted crew members with installing space debris protection devices and conducting routine station inspections.
• Taikonauts described their new digital assistant as offering “very comprehensive content” for mission support.
• The system was developed from a domestic Chinese open-source AI model, specifically engineered to meet the requirements of manned space missions.

How it works: Wukong AI operates through a dual-module architecture that combines Earth-based analysis with real-time orbital support.

• One module remains on the ground to perform in-depth analysis and complex computations.
• The second module travels with the crew aboard Tiangong, handling immediate challenges and providing instant responses.
• The system’s knowledge base focuses specifically on aerospace flight data, navigation, and tactical planning rather than general AI capabilities.

Why this matters: The deployment positions China as a pioneer in space-based AI applications while supporting its broader ambitions to become a dominant space power.

• Tiangong serves as the cornerstone of China’s 30-year strategy to establish itself as a leading space nation.
• The station currently functions as a microgravity laboratory for experiments impossible on Earth, with plans for expansion into a logistics and training hub between Earth and the Moon.
• Unlike general-purpose space robots, Wukong AI specifically combines intelligent assistant functions with dedicated space navigation capabilities.

What they’re saying: Chinese officials emphasize the system’s role in enhancing both operational efficiency and crew support.

• “This system can provide rapid and effective information support for complex operations and fault handling by crew members, improving work efficiency, in-orbit psychological support, and coordination between space and ground teams,” said Zou Pengfei of the taikonaut training center.

Competitive landscape: While not the first AI system deployed in space, Wukong AI distinguishes itself through its specialized focus on navigation and mission planning.

• The International Space Station already hosts Astrobee, a robot assistant for routine tasks, and CIMON, a conversational psychological support system.
• Wukong’s unique positioning lies in combining Earth-based intelligent assistant capabilities with total specialization in space operations and navigation.