The Naval Research Laboratory has developed Autosat, an AI-powered satellite system capable of fully autonomous operation. This system represents a significant advancement in satellite technology, operating independently without human intervention, GPS support, or ground control.
Autosat's capabilities are built on an extensive training database of real-world images, enabling it to identify and analyze various ground structures and features. The system continuously improves its performance by learning from new data collected during its operations.
The technology has garnered particular interest from the Space Force due to its strategic advantages. The Space Force is actively pursuing the expansion of autonomous satellite capabilities, collaborating with commercial partners to integrate AI into their command-and-control systems. This initiative, known as Rapid Resilience Command and Control, aims to modernize space operations and enhance operational efficiency.
Space Force officials predict a significant increase in satellite autonomy within the next two decades. This aligns with broader trends in AI applications, where pattern recognition and decision-making capabilities are revolutionizing various technological domains.