AI Innovation in Space Technology Development

Abstract

Spacecraft face several challenges: limited communication with Earth, message delays, lack of staff, and power limitations. While essential autonomy is needed for every spacecraft, past missions have shown that more advanced autonomous systems can make missions more efficient, reliable, and scientifically productive while reducing the need for human involvement. Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used to achieve this autonomy. Many AI methods exist for autonomous planning, scheduling, problem detection and fixing (Fault Detection, Isolation, and Recovery or FDIR), analyzing data on-board, and processing Earth-observation data.

Exploring space has always been an exciting goal for humanity. Our desire to explore the universe grows as we learn more about it. One main challenge is ensuring space missions are safe and successful. AI is key in solving these problems, especially in areas like autonomous navigation and mission planning. This paper looks at AI's history, current progress, and future possibilities in space exploration, showing how it could change how we explore space.

National space agencies have set short-term and long-term goals, which require significant advancements in space technology. AI is considered an essential part of future space systems. However, challenges remain, such as improving spacecraft awareness and decision-making. As it develops, AI will play an even more significant role in space exploration.