SDA Demonstrates POET Computer’s Automated Data Fusion Capability

The Space Development Agency has demonstrated an autonomous data fusion function using a data processor that was launched into orbit on June 30.

Scientific Systems Company Inc. developed the prototype on-orbit experimental testbed, an artificial intelligence-enabled edge computer that supports autonomous data processing in space. It was loaded onto Loft Orbital‘s YAM-3 satellite and was sent to space through the SpaceX Transporter-2 rideshare mission.

SSCI integrated a software application that identifies and segments clouds from images collected by electro-optical imaging sensors. The company said the POET experiment will eventually show multi-intelligence data fusion capabilities, SpaceNews reported Tuesday.

POET runs software that allows users to request tactical information directly to the YAM-3 satellite. The request would activate the system that tasks YAM-3 to point at the specific region of the ocean and direct an EO imaging payload to collect an image.

Once the process starts, POET will activate a hosted application to process the image using automated target recognition algorithms. YAM-3’s communication systems will then transmit the data to the requesting user.

POET was originally developed for a demonstration for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Blackjack program before SDA took over the experiment.

The typical process for satellite-based data processing is for satellites to send data to ground stations and have human operators process the information before being sent to commanders. SDA wants to move data processing to orbit and shorten the time needed to process information.