Why Is AI Important to Space Exploration and Aerospace?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become increasingly popular over the last decade enhancing the medical field, journalism, computer science, and much more. Naturally, AI has taken a significant place within the Space Industry as well, starting with its implementation in 1998 with the Deep Space 1 probe.
One of the most critical roles AI plays is in data processing. Since space missions generate massive amounts of data from various instruments, sensors, and spacecraft, AI is an efficient tool in analyzing vast amounts of data rapidly and accurately for astrophysicists, aerospace engineers and other specialists. Moreover, AI algorithms can sift through images of distant planets and moons to identify geological features or signs of life, further enhancing space exploration: AI’s ability to detect crucial features within celestial bodies that inform astrophysicists and astronomers about a planet’s habitability makes the process of identifying certain phenomenas (such as liquid water content, carbon dioxide concentration, and nitrogen concentration within a planet) efficient for scientists to gain an improved understanding of our universe. For example, In the famous James Webb Telescope, Morpheus, an artificial intelligence takes created by NASA scientists, is utilized for analyzing complex images produced by the James Webb Telescope.
Moreover, AI enhances the safety of astronauts by taking over dangerous and repetitive tasks. Robotic assistants equipped with AI can perform maintenance and repairs on spacecraft, reducing the risk to human life. In the event of an emergency, AI systems can quickly diagnose issues and suggest or implement solutions, providing an additional layer of security. AI is also vital in managing the vast array of systems aboard modern spacecraft, from life support to power distribution, ensuring that these systems operate at peak efficiency with minimal human oversight. For example, Robonaut 2 is a humanoid robot created by NASA in 2011 to assist humans in space exploration and work. These robots are designed with advanced dexterity, enabling them to perform tasks alongside humans or in hazardous environments, therefore enhancing astronauts’ construction and discovery capabilities in space.
Furthermore, AI aids in the design and operation of spacecraft by optimizing resource management. For Instance, AI can predict the wear and tear on components and schedule maintenance before a failure occurs, extending the operational life of the spacecraft. It can also optimize fuel consumption and energy usage, critical factors for long-duration missions where resupply is impossible.
Although the incorporation of AI in space exploration is being research immensity, constantly analyzing possible failures and shortcomings in AI, by incorporating AI, aerospace engineerings and scientists can not only enhance our ability to explore distant worlds but also accelerate the pace of discovery and innovation in our journey to understand the universe. The integration of AI in space missions represents a transformative leap forward, pushing the boundaries of what humanity can achieve in the fields of space exploration and technology.
JAXA’s Plans With AI and Space Exploration
As explained in the research paper, AI AND SPACE ROBOTICS TECHNOLOGY AT JAXA by Takashi Kubota, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has conducted a vast amount of activities that incorporate AI and robotics, focusing on their application in deep space exploration. Japan’s ambitious plans for lunar, Mars, and small body exploration with the utilization of AI, illustrates how Ai can push the boundaries on space exploration by enabling space agencies to conduct faster and more efficient space missions.
The Hayabusa-2 mission, which successfully launched to the near-Earth asteroid Ryugu in 2014, is a mission in which JAXA deployed two exploration robots, creating an artificial crater on the asteroid Ryugu. This enabled the collection of samples of unaltered materials from the astroid in order to attempt to answer questions about original organic matters and water existed in the solar system plus how are they related to life and ocean water. The technologies developed for this mission, such as precise guidance systems, visual navigation, and autonomous sampling, are highlighted as critical advancements in AI and robotics.
In addition to asteroid exploration, JAXA developed the Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon (SLIM). This mission aims to demonstrate precision landing techniques, which are essential for future lunar and planetary exploration. SLIM’s goal is to achieve pinpoint landings with lightweight probes, which could lead to more targeted and efficient exploration missions.
The Lunar Polar Exploration Mission is another significant focus of JAXA’s efforts. Planned for launch in the mid-2020s, this mission will investigate the presence of water ice in the Moon’s polar regions. Furthermore, the mission aims to gather data on the quantity and form of lunar water resources, which could be crucial for sustainable space exploration in the future.
Another significant aspect of incorporation AI in space exploration at JAXA is its plans for the Martian Moons exploration (MMX) mission. Scheduled for launch in the mid-2020s, this mission will explore Mars’ moons, Phobos and Deimos, and return samples from Phobos to Earth. The mission seeks to uncover the origins of these moons and gain insights into the formation of planetary systems with the assistance of AI technology.
JAXA has also participated in the development of intelligent robotic systems designed for future space missions. These systems include multi-robot exploration technologies, autonomous exploration techniques, and in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) technologies. JAXA’s Space Exploration Innovation Hub Center (TansaX) plays a pivotal role in advancing these technologies, aiming to revolutionize space exploration and contribute to terrestrial innovations.
Overall, JAXA’s comprehensive approach to leveraging AI and robotics to enhance the efficiency, safety, and scientific yield of space exploration missions, indicates that it aims to continue the incorporation of AI in space exploration. It also underscores the importance of international collaborations and technological innovation in achieving these ambitious goals.
Credits
Chauhan, Nagesh Singh. “AI in Space Exploration.” The AI Dream, 17 May 2024, www.theaidream.com/post/artificial-intelligence-in-space-exploration#:~:text=AI%20excels%20at%20processing%20and.
https://www.hou.usra.edu/meetings/isairas2020fullpapers/pdf/5007.pdf
(AI.Business | How JAXA, NASA and European Space Agency Are Developing Extraterrestrial Autonomous Construction Using Artificial Intelligence)