Cognitive Technology in Space: A Closer Look
The Birth of Autonomous Communications
NASA's Cognitive Communications Project was initiated in 2016 to create autonomous space communication systems. These systems are designed to adjust to their surroundings and perform updates mid-mission without any human involvement. This innovation is part of a larger effort to make space missions more efficient and reliable.
Partnership with TES Program
The project first joined hands with the Technology Education Satellite (TES) program at NASA's Ames Research Center in 2022. This collaboration saw the launch of TES-13 CubeSat, which carried the first neuromorphic processor into space. A neuromorphic processor mimics the human brain's functionality, enabling advanced cognitive technology testing in space.
Introducing Cognitive Engine 1 (CE-1)
Following TES-13's success, the team developed Cognitive Engine 1 (CE-1). CE-1 integrates various technological capabilities into a comprehensive system that automates aspects of spacecraft communications, including service scheduling and priority-based data transfers.
TES-11: A Milestone in Cognitive Communications
On July 3, the TES-11 mission launched aboard Firefly Aerospace’s Noise of Summer mission. As one of eight small satellites, TES-11 is part of NASA Ames' initiative to pair students with NASA researchers. This mission evaluates how innovations fare in space, particularly focusing on CubeSats. TES-11 is testing CE-1 components to enable satellites to autonomously schedule ground station interactions and manage data downloads.
Future Implications for NASA Missions
Results from TES-11 will help refine the CE-1 design, aiming for its adoption in future NASA missions. The project is supported by NASA's Space Communications and Navigation program and managed at NASA's Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.
Understanding Neuromorphic Processors
To make things simpler, imagine a computer chip that thinks like a human brain. Neuromorphic processors are advanced chips that try to replicate our brain's way of processing information, enabling smarter and more efficient technology in space missions.
Conclusion
The successful deployment and testing of these technologies mark significant strides in NASA's journey towards fully autonomous space missions. Such innovations pave the way for more dependable and self-sufficient space exploration, reducing the need for constant human oversight.
