BlackSky to Collect, Process Burst Imagery to Train DOD AI Models

Space-based intelligence company BlackSky Technology has announced a multimillion-dollar Department of Defense contract to collect and annotate multi-frame burst photos to improve moving target artificial intelligence models.

Satellites passing over an area of interest can rapidly capture burst imagery to generate 3D volumetric products and movement-oriented detection analytics, BlackSky said Monday.

According to BlackSky, it will provide the DOD with subscription access to its Spectra tasking and analytics platform as part of the contract. The Herndon, Virginia-based company’s imagery and automated analytics are expected to support exercises, technology demonstrations and operations.

BlackSky Chief Technology Officer Patrick O’Neil said his company’s efforts will decrease the time needed to develop moving target algorithms for related DOD initiatives.

News of the award comes after BlackSky secured $50 million in contracts to establish an Earth observation satellite network for Indonesia. The company will work with Thales Alenia Space to build the spacecraft, set up corresponding ground station capabilities and support flight operations.

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