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The Lely Astronaut A5-Next was developed after extensive field trials across 71 farms.
With 2025 marking the 30th anniversary of its first milking robot being installed in Belgium in 1995, Lely says it has taken automated milking to the “next level” with the release of the latest version of the Astronaut Series - the A5-Next.
Utilising a new operating system that allows technicians to perform upgrades at the touch of a button, the new system also lays the foundation for remote servicing and over-the-air software updates.
Having undergone extensive field trials across 71 farms during the development phase, the A5-Next showed reduced alarms, less downtime, and a 10% increase in milkings between alerts, while also diagnosing issues and determining whether a technician is needed.
A redesigned robot arm incorporates the 2+ teat detection system, which combines lasers and cameras to enhance visibility, improve attachment times and reduce stress during heifers’ first milking. It can also provide data on teat health and size, helping Lely to recommend the optimal liners for peak performance. A fully automatic milk filter removes the repetitive task of replacing filter socks by using a back-flush cleaning system, with a stainless-steel membrane, eliminating the need for filter socks, saving money. One new filter element can service up to four robots.
To make automated milking accessible to more farmers, the A5-Next integrates with electronic ear tag identification to align with current regulations. This is particularly relevant in the UK, where EID will become mandatory for newborn calves from 2027
A “milk for use” feature is said to help improve colostrum quality, incorporating a lowpressure nozzle to reduce foaming and divert colostrum into one of four sealed buckets to protect against flies or contamination.
Smart AI algorithms in Horizon generate actionable advice, with backward compatibility offering the possibility to upgrade existing A5 systems with the latest A5-Next features.
Astronaut A5-Next is now commercially available worldwide, with delivery schedules starting from September 2025.
In other Lely developments, Astronaut MAX is a combination of units that operate together with the Astronaut system to deliver filtered and cooled milk over large distances from teat to the bulk tank.
Currently able to support up to 18 robotic units, up to three bulk milk tanks can be connected over distances of up to 400m. Designed for large farms milking 500 to 1100 cows, the system is said to help deliver more milk per labour hour, with a capacity of 60,000 litres per day.
Elsewhere, with an eye towards cyber security, the Lely Hub, is said to improve digital resilience and data security on-farm, controlling automated server software and security updates, while also facilitating improved remote connections, with secure user access. Managed and monitored by Lely, via a sturdy, wall-mounted control unit, the unit is passively cooled to reduce the impact from dust, while also being configured to connect to an Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS).
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