Spiral Blue receives first edge computer operational data from space

Spiral Blue’s Space Edge One (SE-1) computer has become the first Australian Space Edge Computer, and first NVIDIA Xavier NX, to be operational in space. Spiral Blue has received initial data from SE-1, having launched with Satellogic aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on the Transporter-6 mission back in January.

Spiral Blue’s SE-1 enables customers to run their existing code in space without the need for a compiler, resulting in faster time to orbit than ever before. The company says SE-1 is unique in this regard and the most powerful computer ever built for use in space outside of a space station, boasting the capability to process massive amounts of data in real-time using AI technology. This advanced technology is designed to help customers conduct quick and efficient data analysis and set a new standard for computing performance in space.

SE-1 is now capable of processing data in space at quantities and speeds never seen before at such a low Size, Weight and Power (SWAP), says Spiral Blue. The company believes this level of computing power will provide customers with faster and more accurate insights into satellite data, allowing for better decision-making and increased productivity by enabling the use of AI in space.

“After many years and multiple launches, we’ve finally got operational data back from space for one of our missions!” said Spiral Blue CEO Taofiq Huq. “This is a huge milestone for Spiral Blue as a space company and a validation of the massive effort that our team has put into Space Edge Computing over the years.”

Spiral Blue proprietary machine learning applications optimised to run on the Space Edge Computer include:

• Vessel Detect
• Cloud Clipper
• Canopy Mapper
• Fire Severity
• Water Body Mapper

Additional applications can be developed to suit mission requirements, with planned testing of third-party applications for various companies to begin in the coming days.

This is the fourth Spiral Blue Space Edge Computer and the first Space Edge One launched thus far. Spiral Blue has previously launched three Space Edge Zero prototypes into space.

Spiral Blue is also working with other space hardware manufacturers through an Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre Commercialisation Grant. This grant is supporting Spiral Blue’s Rainbow Python mission, an integrated hyperspectral imaging and edge computing platform.