The Spiral Blue SE-1 space edge computer.
Spiral Blue has announced the commissioning in orbit of its Space Edge One (SE-1) computer, which it says is the first Australian space-based edge computer.
Spiral Blue said it has received initial data from SE-1, which was launched with Satellogic aboard a Space-X Falcon 9 rocket on the Transporter-6 mission on 3 January, 2023.
“After many years and multiple launches, we’ve finally got operational data back from space for one of our missions!” said Spiral Blue CEO Taofiq Huq. “This is a huge milestone for Spiral Blue as a space company and a validation of the massive effort that our team has put into Space Edge Computing over the years.”
According to Spiral Blue, the SE-1 is the most powerful computer ever built for use in space outside of a space station, boasting the ability to process massive amounts of data in real-time using cutting-edge AI technology.
The start-up says SE-1 is capable of processing data in space at quantities and speeds never seen before at such a low size, weight and power. It says that this new level of computing power will provide customers with faster and more accurate insights into satellite data, allowing for better decision making and increased productivity by enabling the use of AI in space.
The SE-1 enables customers to run their existing code in space without the need for a compiler.
Spiral Blue proprietary machine learning applications already optimised to run on the SE-1 include:
- Vessel Detect
- Cloud Clipper
- Canopy Mapper
- Fire Severity
- Water Body Mapper
Additional applications can be developed to suit mission requirements, with planned testing of third-party applications for various companies to soon commence.
This is the fourth Spiral Blue Space Edge Computer, and first Space Edge One launched thus far. Spiral Blue had previously launched 3 Space Edge Zero prototypes.
Spiral Blue is working with other space hardware manufacturers through an Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre Commercialisation Grant. The grant is supporting Spiral Blue’s Rainbow Python mission, an integrated hyperspectral imaging and edge computing platform.
