Revolutionizing Space-Based ISR through Decentralized Systems & In-Orbit ML Computing for Near-Real-Time Intelligence
Little Place Labs, as part of a US Dept. of the Air Force (DAF) Research Contract, is funding research that can revolutionize intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities by creating the ability for satellites to conduct in-orbit analysis and intelligence extraction from large amounts of raw data in real-time, avoiding the need for data transfer to ground stations. Traditional space-based ISR systems suffer from high latency, limited data processing capabilities, and a lack of scalability, which can render the system fragile and vulnerable to security threats.
As part of this, this project aims to develop edge-based computing applications for satellitebased systems to detect objects or events of interest. The primary objective and use case is the detection of sea vessels in the region of interest and classifying the vessels. Monitoring maritime activity in the given maritime region involves identifying and classifying various types of activities to ensure compliance with international laws and regulations. Monitoring military activities, territorial incursions, and illegal activities in given maritime region is essential for maintaining regional stability and maritime sovereignty. Activities may include tracking naval movements, identifying unauthorized entries into territorial waters, combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and detecting illicit fuel transfers at sea. These efforts are critical for addressing security threats, environmental degradation, and regulatory evasion.
Another possible use cases is detecting artillery craters in agricultural fields using space-borne remote sensing systems. The case studies may include real-time use cases picked up from the ongoing war in Ukraine and Russia. This work will be extended to other use cases which are relevant to the end user in DAF. These use cases will be concluded with a discussion with DAF in the first phase of design.
Duration:
06/01/2024 - 11/15/2025
Partnering Organization(s):
BSOS-Geography
- Other Non-Federal - Little Place Labs
Total Award Amount:
$538,259.00