Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) recently developed an onboard artificial intelligence (AI)-based object detector called AIRIS ⁽¹⁾. Primarily, AIRIS detects objects from satellite images with satellite-mounted AI driven by a next-generation space-grade microprocessor (MPU) SOISOC4. AIRIS is scheduled to be launched aboard the small demonstration satellite RAISE-4⁽²⁾ in FY2025, after which it will conduct an in-orbit demonstration.

Satellite-Mounted AI-Based Detector

AIRIS is a satellite-mounted device consisting of an AI-equipped data processor and an earth observation camera developed by the Tokyo University of Science. Specifically, it detects objects by taking their images on the earth’s surface from orbit and processing the images with AI. It uses AI in orbit to perform detection processing on the ground. Accordingly, AIRIS can use its AI to select and transmit to the ground only those areas where target objects are visible in images. Also, it can receive an AI model that was retrained on the ground based on the transmitted images and update its own onboard AI while in orbit.

Mainly, AIRIS will execute a demonstration utilizing these features. This is part of the Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4 ⁽³⁾ mission, which is scheduled for launch in FY2025. Also, this mission is being executed as a demonstration opportunity under the Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration Program by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Specifically, AIRIS will execute a cycle of taking images of vessels sailing on the surface. It will use AI to select only areas in the images that contain vessels and transmit those areas to the ground, having the AI undergo retraining on the ground. Then, it will update the AI by sending the retrained AI model to the AI in orbit.

Space-grade MPU

Additionally, AIRIS operations will be controlled with SOISOC4, a next-generation space-grade MPU developed JAXA and MHI. Particularly, SOISOC4 is a domestically produced microprocessor designed and manufactured based on advanced SOI (Silicon on Insulator) and SOC (System on Chip) design technologies for general consumer use. It has high radiation resistance to withstand the harsh radiation environment of deep space. Also, it features various communication and security functions and can operate with low power consumption.

Moreover, MHI will conduct an in-orbit demonstration of SOISOC4 together with an AI operation demonstration of AIRIS. This will be part of the in-orbit demonstrations planned for the Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4 mission. Through its development of these devices, MHI will contribute to Japan’s space development and utilization efforts. Further, it will enhance the technologies and expertise accumulated to date in developing cutting-edge space equipment.

Notes:

¹ Artificial Intelligence Retraining In Space

² RApid Innovative payload demonstration SatellitE-4 or RAISE-4 is one of the satellites that will be launched aboard JAXA’s Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4 mission.

³ AIRIS was selected as the subject of demonstration for Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4 in June 2023.

-22 March 2024 –