SmartSat develops $7M autonomous AI Spacecraft

The SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (SmartSat), has unveiled an ambitious $7 million project to develop autonomous AI spacecraft. Australia’s pioneering space research centre integrates artificial intelligence technology into the next-gen spacecraft.

This three-year endeavour is known as SCARLET-α (Spacecraft Autonomy and Onboard AI for Next Generation Space Systems). It brings together a formidable consortium comprising Airbus, Asension, Deakin University, and Defence Science and Technology Group. Leonardo Australia, Saab Australia, Swinburne University of Technology, and the University of South Australia (UniSA) are also a part of this project.

It aspires to create sophisticated autonomous algorithms that empower spacecraft without Earth-based intervention.

The SCARLET-α Project

One of the most significant projects in the field of AI-enabled autonomous spacecraft is the SCARLET-α project. It is a $7 million project funded by the Australian Government’s Cooperative Research Centres Program. The project is being led by the SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (CRC), a $200 million, industry-led research centre developing innovative technologies to advance Australia’s space industry.

The project will focus on four key areas:

• Onboard processing and actionable intelligence: The project will develop algorithms that enable spacecraft to perform a wide range of tasks with minimal human operator intervention. This will include data analysis, mission planning, and fault detection and diagnosis.
• Small spacecraft and constellation resilience: The project will develop algorithms that improve the resilience and efficiency of small spacecraft within constellations. This will allow spacecraft to adapt to changing conditions and unforeseen events and to respond in real time without relying on commands from Earth.
• Dynamic optimisation of constellation resources: The project will develop algorithms that optimise the use of resources within a constellation. This will ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively, maximising the productivity of space-based operations.
• Real-time tasking and resource allocation: The project will develop algorithms that enable spacecraft to be tasked and allocated resources in real-time. This will allow for more responsive and continuous space-based observations.

The Role of Spacecraft Autonomy

UniSA STEM Professor Ryszard Kowalczyk emphasises the significance of spacecraft autonomy in the next generation of space systems. By operating independently of ground contact, the spacecraft can respond swiftly to unexpected events. These happen in real time without waiting for commands from Earth. 

This autonomy will enhance Australia’s remote sensing capabilities and reduce communication and data access delays. It can also decrease space and ground operations costs.

Overall, the SCARLET-α project, supported by the Federal Government CRC Program Australia, heralds a new era in Australia’s space industry. Merging artificial intelligence with space systems opens a whole set of possibilities in advancing mankind. With this, SmartSat and its consortium partners aim to develop cutting-edge technologies to revolutionise spacecraft operations. 

Australia’s space industry will continue to push boundaries, drive innovation, and secure its position as a global leader in the field.