Automating Space Missions with AI Technology
AI and Machine Learning technologies are optimizing spacecraft missions to operate efficiently and automatically.
AI technology has the potential to bring us closer to the stars. Human being limited with his vision cannot really explore every facet of space. The emerging technologies like machine learning and deep learning in AI are giving an opportunity for organizations working in space programs to embrace AI and robotics. Machine learning fetches a huge amount of data fed in the system while in deep learning machines utilise multi-layered artificial neural networks to train itself on complex tasks like image recognition.Robots are now conquering space by reaching out to the places that even human astronauts can’t. Let us explore some of the advanced AI technologies being employed in space missions. AI ML Startups like Slingshot Aerospace build the next generation of satellite, aerial, and drone signal processing AI and analytics capabilities.
Mission Control is a space exploration and robotics company with a focus on mission operations, onboard autonomy, and artificial intelligence.
It seems that AI and space go together. So AI and Machine Learning are used in different ways in Space Operations.
- Mission Planning
AI is used for mission planning and complex scheduling systems with a very limited team in a short period of time. By considering scientific and engineering mission constraints AI optimizes the schedule accordingly to satisfy all needs. By programming the spacecraft with AI technology, it can execute the command itself when given a specific function based on past experience.
2. Mission Operations
Mission operations can be operated autonomously with the help of AI. AI and machine learning are also used to assess safety-critical missions and evaluate operational limitations. It helps to process large amounts of information based on indicators from nominal operations and past performance where anomalies occurred.
3. Data Collection
A large amount of data has been collected since a long time from earth-observing spacecraft, deep space probes and planetary rovers. Significantly, for ground infrastructures , it is used to distribute and deliver data to end users. With the help of AI automation, the data can be analyzed, processed and transmitted to the end user.
4. Autonomous Navigation and Movement
Spacecraft with autonomous navigation can travel through interstellar space and perform complex movements for arriving and landing on distant celestial objects. AI and machine learning facilitates guiding and maneuvering a spacecraft to operate automatically by freeing up human resources for other mission activities.
