ASTRA 2008 builds on the tradition of the previous nine ASTRA Workshops. It is a forum for exchange of information and discussion of the European space Automation and Robotics (A&R) community. Representatives from industry and research in the ESA member states will obtain an up-to-date picture of

• currently envisaged space missions and application scenarios where A&R could play a major role,
• the A&R technology needs which can be derived from these application scenarios,
• the current status of European research and development programmes in the field of space A&R, and
• new technology trends for space A&R.

The Aurora long-term mission framework for robotic and human exploration of the bodies of the Solar System - particularly the ExoMars rover mission - which ESA pursues at this moment, has increased the need for space Automation and Robotics.

The recent interest in manned missions to the moon also demands robotic technologies in order to prepare future manned visits to our neighbouring celestial bodies.

ASTRA will provide an overview of technologies which are available or under development in the ESA member states, or which should be included in future
ESA-managed R&D activities.