Artificial intelligence has transformed many areas of our daily lives. From healthcare to transport, tasks usually carried out by humans are now being performed by computers or robots, more quickly and efficiently. What’s more – AI is adapting. It’s now bringing us closer and closer to the stars, with numerous benefits.
Here’s a closer look at the importance of artificial intelligence in space technology.
Why Do We Need AI?
Artificial intelligence allows computer systems to work with the intellectual processes of humans. However, these machines can carry out tasks more dexterously and efficiently than people. They can also enter hazardous environments, such as areas that require deep sea diving, making certain processes much safer.
In short: AI is improving the way we work. It’s not about replacing humans, rather, changing our workplaces for the better. For these reasons, it’s currently being utilised by a variety of industries, including:
Healthcare
AI can mimic cognitive functions. This makes it a perfect fit within healthcare, where many issues need addressing to make treatments faster, more effective and more affordable.
One example of this is using artificial intelligence to build databases of drugs and medical conditions. This can help us find cures or treatment for rare diseases. AI is also being utilised to make healthcare more affordable around the world. The machine can mimic a doctor’s brain, recognising how humans express their ailments.
Transport
Artificial intelligence is greatly improving the efficiency of the transport sector. It can help optimise routes, finding the fastest and safest journeys for different vehicles.
Manufacturing
Adopting AI in different factories is helping to:
– Make certain processes safer by automating them
– Improve engineering efficiency
– Reduce costs
– Increase revenue
– Plan supply and demand
The Value of AI in Space
Where does space come in? Artificial intelligence has enormous promise within satellite and space technology.
Global Navigation
Data collected by Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) can support AI applications. Tracing, tracking, positioning and logistics are all areas that can be greatly improved due to precise and consistent data collection.
Earth Observation
Satellite imagery in conjunction AI can be used to monitor a number of different places, from urban to hazardous areas.
This can help improve urban planning, finding the best places for development. It can also help discover new routes, allowing us to get around more quickly and efficiently.
Satellites can also observe areas of interest, such as deforestation. Data collected by this technology can help researchers in monitor and look after them. As well as this, satellites can be deployed to monitor hazardous environments, such as nuclear sites, without the need for people having to enter.Data collected by space technology and processed by AI machines is fed back to the industries that require it, allowing them to proceed accordingly.
Communications
Satellites can transfer important information to AI machines, providing reliable and important communication. This can be used for traffic needs, for example. Satellites can collect data, on congestion or accidents, and feed back to the machines. Artificial intelligence can then be used to find alternative courses, rerouting or diverting traffic where necessary.
What Does This Mean?
We haven’t yet scratched the surface on unlocking the full potential of AI. This presents many exciting business opportunities for innovators to take advantage of. This could be in exploring the technical viability of new applications or exploiting new space assets, for example. Artificial intelligence in space technology can greatly improve our daily lives, from inside our workplaces to how we get around.
Heleana is a keen science and technology blogger who is fascinated by the latest developments in UK innovation. When she's not writing about AI, autonomous vehicles or future cities, she can be found offering her guidance to UK business through her work with Enterprise Europe Network.