AI takes China to the stars

Researchers are looking into how artificial intelligence (AI) can assist a planned Chinese mission to the edges of the solar system, as stated in a new paper. AI could help overcome challenges faced in these missions, like unfamiliar environments, complex mission operations, diverse scientific equipment, uncertain targets, and long communication delays with limited data transmission.

The paper explains that AI can improve spacecraft autonomy, which reduces the need for constant communication with Earth. It can assist with data processing, autonomous perception, decision-making, and efficient computing. The authors of the paper come from notable Chinese institutions such as the Beijing Institute of Technology and the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, and it was published in the Journal of Deep Space Exploration.

Chinese space officials have announced plans for a mission targeting the heliosphere's head and tail, aiming to reach 100 astronomical units (AU) by 2049 and potentially 1,000 AU by the end of the century. The mission may involve two spacecraft powered by radioisotope thermoelectric generators, using flybys of Jupiter and possibly visiting other planets and Kuiper Belt objects. Scientific goals include studying interplanetary dust, the interstellar medium, and cosmic phenomena. Planned tools include optical cameras, dust analysers, a spectrometer, and a magnetometer.

Since the demonstration of the exploration plan for this mission was organized in 2020, there have been limited updates. The 2024 paper offers some insights into the mission’s planning. AI has been utilized in previous Chinese missions, like the Chang’e-6 sample return mission. AI is also expected in future missions, such as the Chang’e-8 lunar south pole mission.

AI could significantly enhance spacecraft autonomy and cut down on reliance on Earth. It could help manage data transmission, improve environmental sensing, enhance decision-making for navigation, and enable efficient computing onboard. The movement toward using AI in space exploration reflects its increasing importance, aiming to improve mission capabilities as humanity ventures deeper into space.

Reference

Space News – AI to power China’s mission to the edges of the solar system

Available at- https://spacenews.com/ai-to-power-chinas-mission-to-the-edges-of-the-solar-system/

(Assessed: 12th March 2025)