HPE’s Spaceborne Computer-2, currently on the International Space Station, has undergone a recent upgrade to handle more complex AI and machine learning tasks. Mark Fernandez, the chief scientist for HPE Space Technologies and Solutions, has praised the upgraded system’s capabilities, enabling a variety of experiments and applications.
The original Spaceborne Computer, deployed in 2017, tested a commercially available HPE processor in space. The Spaceborne Computer-2, nicknamed Spaceborne-2.5 for its latest version, was upgraded with more robust hardware, including new software, modern operating system, and enhanced security features. With 130 terabytes of Kioxia storage, Spaceborne-2.5 is showcasing the potential uses of AI in future lunar and planetary missions.
Researchers are welcome to propose experiments and technology demonstrations for Spaceborne-2.5, which boasts updated CPU and GPU technology and supports various AI frameworks and machine learning aspects. The computer’s advanced storage capacity addresses the challenge of data storage at the edge of space, allowing for various applications and experiments.
One notable advancement is the use of AI for DNA monitoring, enabling real-time monitoring and updates to astronaut DNA profiles. Spaceborne-2.5 is also testing AI models for space applications, including collaboration between edge processors and cloud-based systems for AI training and inference.
Potential applications of AI on Spaceborne-2.5 include water detection on the Moon using multispectral sensors. By leveraging inference engines running on edge devices, organizations can analyze data locally to make time-sensitive decisions. Plans for expanding the federation of edge processors on the space station are underway, enabling collaborative learning and data processing.
HPE is considering commercializing spatial computing and demonstrating resilient applications with software like HPE Serviceguard. Future ventures like Spaceborne Computer-3 heading to the Moon will pose unique challenges, such as keeping computers warm during lunar nights. Despite these challenges, the advancements in space computing open up new opportunities for scientific research and commercial applications in space.
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