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Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have spearheaded a transformative era within the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) over the past three years. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted ISRO’s progressive integration of these cutting-edge technologies, showcasing their pivotal role in reshaping various facets of space exploration amidst rapidly evolving technological landscapes.
Dr Singh elaborated on how ISRO has adeptly adapted to the rapid advancements in these domains, infusing AI and ML into various facets of space exploration, signalling a progressive leap in India’s space endeavours.
The minister, also the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, underscored the diverse applications of AI and ML solutions currently under development.
These cutting-edge technologies are being tailored for Launch Vehicles, Spacecraft Operations, Big Data Analytics, Space Robotics, Space Traffic Management, and more, paving the way for an enhanced and efficient space programme.
The Department of Space’s initiatives span a spectrum of AI-driven projects at different stages of exploration and implementation. Key among these initiatives are:
- Designing mission trajectories and enabling autonomous operations for launch vehicles and spacecraft.
- Predictive health monitoring of launch vehicles and satellites through telemetry data analysis.
- Processing satellite data for resource mapping, weather prediction, disaster anticipation, geo-intelligence, precision agriculture, and agroforestry.
- Development of humanoid robots, chatbots, and advancements in space robotics and smart manufacturing.
Furthermore, Dr Singh highlighted collaborative efforts between ISRO and premier institutions such as IITs and IISc in developing specialised AI applications, underscoring the collaborative nature of these technological advancements.
The strategic integration of AI solutions within ongoing ISRO projects and programmes, based on technical feasibility and mission objectives, was also stressed by Dr Jitendra Singh. Notably, significant projects like the Gaganyaan Programme, Chandrayaan-3 mission, operational launch vehicle and spacecraft programmes, and Earth observation data analysis, are incorporating AI solutions, with their costs assimilated within allocated project funds.
The tangible outcomes of leveraging AI and ML in space exploration were articulated by Dr. Singh, highlighting key achievements including advanced satellite data analysis, Earth observation applications like crop yield prediction and disaster forecasting, and successful interplanetary missions such as Chandrayaan and Mars missions, showcasing India’s prowess in orbit manoeuvring and soft landings.
Dr Jitendra Singh outlined the proactive steps undertaken by the Department of Space to expedite the assimilation of AI solutions across ISRO centres, including collaboration with the private sector. Initiatives like cross-center knowledge exchange, discussions on establishing dedicated AI labs, employee upskilling programmes, and organising national-level AI events underscore ISRO’s commitment to fostering AI-driven innovations in space exploration.
In a strategic move to foster innovation and cultivate budding talent in academia, the Space Technology Incubation Centre (S-TIC) has been established. S-TIC serves as a hub to attract and nurture young minds brimming with innovative ideas and research acumen within the realm of space technology.
It aims to motivate and empower these individuals to initiate startups and businesses focused on space technology and applications. Furthermore, it plays a pivotal role in nurturing the Academia-Industry ecosystem tailored specifically for space technology development.
Additionally, ISRO has taken steps to establish Space Technology Cells (STC) in several premier institutions. These cells serve as catalysts for collaborative research and development endeavours between ISRO and academia, fostering a conducive environment for innovation and technological advancement.
These significant initiatives emphasise the government’s commitment to cultivating a vibrant ecosystem for space technology innovation. They underscore the strategic efforts undertaken to harness and leverage the potential of emerging talent and academia-industry partnerships.
ISRO’s concerted efforts to fuse AI and ML technologies into space exploration not only mark a significant milestone but also signal an exciting era of innovation and efficiency in India’s pursuit of cosmic exploration.
