Firefly Aerospace collaborates with Klepsydra Technologies for space-based edge computing

Written by Copernical Team Wednesday, 17 April 2024 20:25

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Los Angeles CA (SPX) Apr 16, 2024

Firefly Aerospace, Inc., a comprehensive space transportation provider, has entered into a collaboration to deploy the Klepsydra Artificial Intelligence (AI) application aboard Firefly's Elytra vehicle. Scheduled for launch on the Alpha rocket later this year, Elytra aims to facilitate on-orbit, real-time data processing as an edge computing platform. "Edge computing in space addresses the

Firefly Aerospace collaborates with Klepsydra Technologies for space-based edge computing
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Apr 16, 2024

Firefly Aerospace, Inc., a comprehensive space transportation provider, has entered into a collaboration to deploy the Klepsydra Artificial Intelligence (AI) application aboard Firefly's Elytra vehicle. Scheduled for launch on the Alpha rocket later this year, Elytra aims to facilitate on-orbit, real-time data processing as an edge computing platform.

"Edge computing in space addresses the significant bandwidth issues associated with transmitting large data volumes from spacecraft to Earth-based stations," explained Jana Spruce, Vice President of Spacecraft at Firefly. "By processing data directly on the spacecraft, Elytra enhances real-time decision-making capabilities and supports autonomous applications like space domain awareness and anomaly detection."

Elytra, developed internally at Firefly, integrates seamlessly with the spacecraft's primary avionics, allowing for the reception and processing of data from payloads, sensors, and cameras. This setup permits the running of software applications as a service, which processes data in orbit before transmitting only relevant post-processed data to clients.

In the upcoming Elytra Mission 1, Klepsydra Technologies will test its AI navigation application using the onboard edge computing capabilities. This will enable real-time processing of sensor data for attitude determination and navigation, among other functions. Additionally, Klepsydra plans to trial a new cloud detection algorithm that could allow for dynamic switching between AI applications, marking a step forward in their AI-as-a-service offerings.

"We are deeply honored by the trust Firefly has placed in us as we demonstrate our major AI software for space processors," said Pablo Ghiglino, CEO of Klepsydra Technologies.

The Elytra vehicle is set to operate as an edge computing platform for up to one year in space during Mission 1. After detaching from the Alpha rocket, Elytra will deploy commercial payloads and carry out a responsive space demonstration for the NRO, including executing an on-orbit maneuver and deploying further U.S. government payloads as required.