AI Applications in the Space Economy

Satellite achieves autonomous decision-making in space using onboard AI in 90 seconds A briefcase-sized satellite successfully used onboard AI to autonomously decide where and when to capture scientific images, completing the entire decision cycle in under 90 seconds without human input. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory tested the "Dynamic Targeting" technology aboard a satellite built by UK startup Open Cosmos, equipped with machine learning processors from Dublin-based Ubotica. The system scans 500 kilometers ahead of the satellite's orbit, captures preview images, and analyzes cloud cover in real-time. Clear skies trigger detailed surface photography, while cloudy conditions prompt the satellite to skip shots entirely. This intelligent filtering saves bandwidth, storage capacity, and processing time while dramatically improving data quality for scientists. Traditional satellites function as passive data collectors, imaging whatever passes beneath them and transmitting everything back to Earth for later analysis. The AI-powered approach enables immediate disaster response capabilities, potentially detecting wildfires, volcanic eruptions, and severe storms within minutes rather than days after post-processing. The breakthrough builds on previous International Space Station demonstrations and represents a fundamental shift toward autonomous space-based intelligence that could transform Earth observation, climate monitoring, and emergency response systems. 🛰️https://lnkd.in/e-b_f-Xw

I was amazed to read about how Microsoft and Accenture are using AI and #space #technology to tackle one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time: methane emissions. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes significantly to global warming. Detecting, quantifying, and reducing these emissions is a complex and challenging problem that requires innovative solutions. That’s why I was impressed by the approach taken to address this problem. The solution leverages Azure-based AI tools, such as Azure Data Manager for Energy, to provide end-to-end methane emissions management capabilities. These tools enable customers to optimize sensor placement, monitor sensor data, detect anomalies, identify emission sources, and quantify emission volumes. But what really caught my eye was the use of satellite data in this solution. Satellite data provides a unique perspective on methane emissions, as it can cover large areas and detect emissions that are otherwise difficult to measure. This allows customers to validate and augment their ground-based sensor data with satellite observations, and to gain deeper insights into their methane emissions performance. This is a great example of how AI and space technologies can be applied to solve real-world problems and make a positive impact on the environment. I look forward to seeing more examples of how satellite data can be used to enhance AI solutions like this one. If you are interested in learning more about this topic, you can read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/ezGmZVYr Ron Kerr Linda Laphen

🌎 Earth's got a fever, and satellites along with Google's AI are taking her temperature! 🛰 Imagine satellites peering down from space, not just capturing beautiful images, but sniffing out invisible plumes of methane – a potent greenhouse gas 80 times more powerful than CO2 at trapping heat. This sci-fi scenario is becoming a reality thanks to advancements in technology and AI. In a collaborative effort between Google Cloud computing (using AI), Environmental Defense Fund, and scientists from Harvard University and the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian, methane leaks can now be mapped and tracked, allowing us to take steps towards mitigating climate change and building a more sustainable future. Tracking from Space: Satellites like EDF's MethaneSAT can detect and measure methane emissions, providing valuable data for targeted mitigation efforts. Cloud Computing and AI: Algorithm developed with help from Google Cloud computing and AI analyze the satellite data, and identify specific sources of leaks, and trends helpful for predicting future emissions. Global Impact: This technology has the potential to revolutionize environmental monitoring, making it easier for governments, companies, and NGOs to track progress towards reducing methane emissions globally. This groundbreaking collaboration proves that even invisible enemies like methane leaks can't hide from the watchful eyes of satellites and Google's AI. #AIforGood #CloudComputing #ClimateAction #Sustainability Read more on it from Google's blog: https://lnkd.in/gFuz46jT