ROBBRIEF
The Pittsburgh firm is running a NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I feasibility study on modular motor hardware for small satellites and other space constrained platforms, plus a two year, $850,000 Phase II flight readiness
HEBI's modular actuators are self-contained motor-and-gearbox modules with integrated encoders and control electronics. The Pittsburgh company has won two NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts in 2026 on that same hardware line: a new Phase I feasibility award for CubeSats and other space-constrained platforms, and a separate two-year, $850,000 Phase II for flight-ready control electronics.
Phase I runs through December 2026 and funds design trade-space work. SBIR Phase I contracts typically run roughly $150,000 to $300,000 over six to twelve months. NASA framed the Phase I interest as actuators for "CubeSats and other space-limited environments where traditional manipulation hardware lacks flexibility." Phase II is the production-minded track, with HEBI targeting LEO and GEO missions.
HEBI's R-, H-, and X-Series (24–48 V DC brushless modules with integrated gearing, Ethernet, and IP65/IP67 or series-elastic options) now form the substrate for both SBIR tracks. Andrew Willig, HEBI's director of hardware, told The Robot Report the company is positioning the new line as a middle path between hobby servos and bespoke space robotics.
What remains unknown: the specific SBIR solicitation or subtopic, any on-record NASA technical monitor comment, and a third-party HEBI deployment in a harsh field environment.