Oxfordshire’s Open Cosmos launches AI-driven Phisat-2 satellite
Open Cosmos, headquartered at Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire, has successfully launched its Phisat-2 satellite into Earth orbit.
The launch took place at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 as part of the Transporter-11 mission.
It aims to showcase the power and potential of in-orbit AI for observing Earth.
The tiny Phisat-2 satellite combines a multispectral camera with a powerful computer that allows AI apps to run onboard, via the NanoSat MO Framework (NMF).
This framework has been developed specifically for small satellites and allows apps to be installed, updated and operated remotely from Earth.
AI has already proven invaluable for helping scientists, policymakers and operators analyse terabytes of satellite data.
Most of this AI processing takes place on the ground, after the data has been downloaded – but the Phisat-2 mission allows it to happen directly at source.
The onboard apps can process and transmit only the most essential information back to Earth, making for more efficient data transmission and faster decision making.
Open Cosmos says these qualities will prove critical for disaster response efforts, maritime monitoring, environmental protection, cloud detection and more.
Jacob Bullard, mission manager in operations at Open Cosmos, said: “The launch of Phisat-2 is a gamechanger for Earth observation.
“With its advanced AI applications and real-time data processing capabilities, Phisat-2 will provide invaluable insights for disaster response, maritime monitoring and environmental protection.
“This mission exemplifies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of space technology and delivering impactful solutions.”
Nicola Melega, technical officer for Phisat-2 at the European Space Agency (ESA), added: “The successful launch of Phisat-2 once again showcases the power of collaboration between ESA and innovative companies like Open Cosmos.
“This mission highlights how advanced AI technology can transform our ability to monitor and respond to changes on Earth, making space data more actionable and impactful than ever before.”
