Four Spiral Blue computers launch aboard Transporter-10 mission

Four of Sydney-based Spiral Blue’s SE-1 edge computers have been launched into orbit aboard the SpaceX Transporter-10 mission from Cape Canaveral in Florida. This successful launch brings the total number of Spiral Blue computers in orbit to 8 and also marks the first customer missions carrying the SE-1.

Two computers are launching as part of customer missions, with the other two being operated by Spiral Blue.

The two Spiral Blue-operated computers are part of Project Rainbow Python, the first Australian hyperspectral mission. These will enable an expansion of the YCIS (Your Code In Space) program launched by the company in 2023 that allows users to test drive Spiral Blue hardware in orbit.

Of the two customer-operated SE-1 computers, one forms a critical component of Esper Satellites ‘Esperesso’ hyperspectral imager. The mission is designed to unlock the hidden secrets of Earth’s surface by exploring chemical compositions with HSI technology.

The second SE-1 is providing edge computing capabilities for an undisclosed customer’s satellite.

“Our customers are using our hardware to carry out onboard processing and to control imaging hardware,” said Co-Founder James Buttenshaw. “The hardware launched by Spiral Blue will, among other things, be utilised to offer our YCIS service once more, helping future customers test-drive our hardware in orbit.  We anticipate being able to commence operations in around one month’s time.”

Spiral Blue has various other customer and test missions planned this year, it says, with additional SE-1 computers scheduled to launch later in the year, as well as the release of the company’s next generation space edge computer by Q3. The SE-2, which is based on the Orin NX, will boast greater processing power as an additional product offering alongside the SE-1.