Smart-Connect advances space tech for disaster response solutions

Smart-Connect advances space tech for disaster response solutions
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Nov 03, 2024

During disaster situations, effective communication becomes essential, but often ground networks are compromised. This issue leaves both the general public and emergency responders with limited access to critical information. Bandwidth shortages can significantly delay emergency operations, leading to loss of life. Recent calamities such as severe floods and wildfires highlight the growing necessity for advanced technologies that enhance disaster response.

To address this, the European Space Agency (ESA) has initiated the Smart-Connect project under the Civil Security from Space programme. This initiative aims to leverage space technology and artificial intelligence (AI) for dependable connectivity in emergency situations. Smart-Connect involves a consortium of European and Canadian companies, led by GeoVille, a satellite-based land monitoring firm.

Since the project's initiation earlier this year, Smart-Connect has expanded to 11 participating companies across five European nations. Notable new partners that joined from July include:

+ Gemsotec (Belgium): Developing systems to filter and prioritize critical information for first responders.

+ Nazka (Belgium): Creating dynamic, interactive mapping solutions for use during unfolding events.

+ Medair (Switzerland): Testing Smart-Connect's tools in real-world humanitarian crises.

Recent project developments include AI-driven data compression capabilities, achieving a compression ratio of up to 1:50 - meaning files originally 50 megabytes in size can be reduced to just 1 megabyte while retaining quality. Additionally, an open API gateway is being developed, allowing users to integrate Smart-Connect tools into their existing systems without the need for an overhaul. Users can log in, share files, and connect additional tools seamlessly.

One critical part of the Smart-Connect solution is the conneXstream Middleware, which automatically switches between terrestrial and satellite networks to ensure an uninterrupted flow of data. The system also uses satellite-enabled Earth observation to gather data on affected areas, which is then analyzed by advanced AI to provide actionable information.

"ESA is proud to be supporting organisations engaged in Smart-Connect, making a difference and providing critical communications infrastructure when it's needed most," said Christopher Topping, ESA's Civil Security from Space Programme Manager. "With Europe facing increasingly significant challenges, we're proud to be using space to protect citizens and ensure prosperity through such projects."

Krzysztof Czarnecki, IT Project Manager at GeoVille, added: "We approach this opportunity to shape the future of disaster response with great excitement and utmost respect. To tackle the most pressing and, so far, unaddressed issues in the realm of civil security, the consortium has gathered a team of experts and major stakeholders from across Europe. A future where space assets become a staple in every first responder's toolkit is approaching, and we are here to deliver it."

The Smart-Connect project leverages the capabilities of space technology, artificial intelligence, and collaboration across international borders. The aim is not just to prepare Europe for future crises, but to set a benchmark for rapid and effective disaster response worldwide.

Smart-Connect is part of ESA's Civil Security from Space programme. This initiative integrates the efforts of ESA's Connectivity and Secure Communications directorate with the Earth Observation directorate, bringing together the necessary resources to address the increasing challenges in civil security and crisis management.