Mission Control and Spire Partner to Enhance AI Capabilities in Space

Mission Control and Spire Partner to Enhance AI Capabilities in Space
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Oct 17, 2024

Spire Global, Inc. (NYSE: SPIR) and Mission Control announced at the International Aeronautical Congress (IAC) a new initiative focused on advancing artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities in space through the Persistence Mission. This mission aims to demonstrate how AI can be effectively integrated into satellite operations, enabling real-time analysis and insights over extended periods.

Spire will develop and manage the LEMUR 6, a 6U satellite equipped with an optical payload, which will capture Earth imagery for processing by Mission Control's onboard AI technology. The mission will utilize SpacefarerAI, Mission Control's platform that simplifies the deployment and updating of AI models on spacecraft, making it easier for mission teams to leverage AI directly onboard. This technology is expected to transform space-based AI applications and improve Earth observation capabilities.

"AI has proven itself as a critical tool in extracting valuable insights from the huge dataset generated from spacecraft observing the Earth," said Ewan Reid, founder and CEO of Mission Control. "By moving the intelligence to the edge, onto the spacecraft itself, we will unlock new capabilities in intelligent remote sensing that are crucial to the future of earth observation and space exploration."

Spire, with more than 13 years of experience in satellite manufacturing and operations, will oversee the entire lifecycle of the LEMUR 6 satellite. The company has launched over 180 satellites and operates the world's largest multi-purpose satellite constellation.

Theresa Condor, chief operating officer at Spire, stated, "By leveraging our expertise in satellite and payload design, build, and operation alongside Mission Control's innovative AI software, this mission represents a significant step forward in advancing on-orbit AI processing. We are excited to contribute to the development of cutting-edge autonomous systems and driving technological progress in the space sector."

The project will highlight how satellites can use AI technologies to derive insights about Earth more quickly and efficiently. The Canadian Space Agency is supporting Mission Control in showcasing the potential of its AI technology for enhancing on-orbit data processing.

The satellite launch is planned for no earlier than 2025.