Advanced Space is studying artificial intelligence / machine learning algorithms to improve trusted autonomous operations of spacecraft for the full life cycle of a mission.
WESTMINSTER, CO, November 7, 2024 — Space assets are almost completely operated from the ground. The United States Space Force (USSF) needs its spacecraft to make more autonomous decisions in an increasingly contested space environment for long periods of time without operator intervention. The Space Force has recently funded Advanced Space on a Phase I SBIR project to investigate artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) algorithms that can guide satellites to proper, self-preserving actions in the absence of human intervention. Advanced Space will leverage its recent spacecraft operations AI/ML work for government customers (NASA, IARPA, AFRL).
Advanced Space is conducting a comprehensive feasibility study that encompasses recent advances in ML-based approaches for spacecraft subsystems as well as overall mission management and operations. The proposed integration methods will be used to yield increased human user assurance within that framework. A crucial component to achieving this goal is implementing properly formulated artificial intelligence (AI) agent(s) that can assess real-time data; make informed decisions in the presence of dynamic environments and multiple objectives/priorities; take proper minimal, self-preserving actions in the absence of immediate human assistance; and define constraints to recommend a human user’s best course of action.
Jeffrey Parker, Ph.D., Advanced Space’s Chief Technology Officer, looks forward to the project, stating, “The goal of our effort is to find ways to strategically reduce—not eliminate—the workload of humans in the loop, via the appropriate integration of AI/ML technologies to targeted applications. In this way, we gain a significant understanding regarding the depth at which AI/ML can be integrated into standard spaceflight operations. I can’t wait to find out what we’ll learn on our way to building trusted autonomy in satellite operations.”
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. Public Affairs approval #AFRL-2024-6230.
ABOUT ADVANCED SPACE:
Advanced Space (https://advancedspace.com/) exists to enable the sustainable exploration, development, and settlement of space through software and services that leverage unique subject matter expertise to improve the fundamentals of spaceflight. The company is actively supporting mission and cutting-edge capabilities spanning commercial, civil, international and national security customers. Through its Mission Enabling Services, Advanced Space provides mission and flight optimization, mission design, and mission systems engineering. With its Technology Solutions Advanced Space provides its customers with trusted AI/ML/autonomy expertise, flight-demonstrated applications, and analysis at scale. Advanced Space offers Mission Solutions with unique rapid turn-key missions, data and capabilities purchases as well as demonstrated cislunar and Martian success. Advanced Space is the owner and operator of CAPSTONE™ for NASA and Prime contractor for Oracle for AFRL. Trusted to take on the challenge, the team at Advanced Space is Delivering Innovation to Orbit™ to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.