In the field of Earth Observation, the demand for real-time decision-making capabilities, combined with the need to optimize data acquisition and transmission, has sparked significant interest in onboard intelligence.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) empowers the new generation of smart satellites and software-defined missions, enhancing their autonomy and reconfigurability.
Notably, the ability to run Machine Learning (ML) algorithms on EO-oriented platforms has been demonstrated by SmallSat missions, such as the Phi-sat missions, utilizing off-the-shelf ultra-low power AI-optimized chips.
The emergence of AI-empowered missions and low-latency communication capabilities presents exciting opportunities in Earth Observation. These advancements facilitate real-time, two-way data flow, enabling the rapid tasking and transmission of actionable insights.
EO Virtual constellation activity shall bring together onboard AI, spacecraft systems, EO data and EO software experts to design, implement, demonstrate and validate a pioneering AI-empowered EO Virtual Constellation as a Proof Of Concept.
The concept (also referred as SensorWeb) shall function as a distributed system of interconnected smartsensing nodes across space, and ground. This system will operate as a highly coordinated virtual instrument, enabling semi- or autonomous detection and dynamic responses to events, measurements, and external information.
CS Group work will focus on innovative components based on various existing spacecraft and on-ground assets. This activity will start with the demonstration of the added value of the EO VirtualConstellation in the field of natural risks and flood events monitoring on Danube region and other area in Europe, based on our experience and expertise in EO image tasking and processing for rapid mapping. Other thematic use cases will be potentially selected by ESA in the frame of the contract to further explore and demonstrate the EO VC concept.
we would like to thank the European Space Agency – ESA PhiLab for the trust placed in our company, which enables us to consolidate CS Group’s position as a leader in satellite-based Earth observation activities.
Nicolas Frouvelle, Eric Guzzonato, Lydia Hutin
CS Group
