According to a report, a rocket manufactured in China for commercial purposes has successfully placed a cluster of satellites into orbit.
Among these satellites is an advanced AI-powered one named “WonderJourney.” This satellite, named after the renowned Chinese philosopher Zhuangzi who introduced the notion of the “universe,” possesses the capability to handle data directly in space rather than relying on ground control centers.
The primary objective of this novel satellite is to eventually develop entirely self-governing spacecraft.
Satellite With Intelligent Features From China
The objective is to facilitate human engagement with spacecraft, empowering the satellite to independently alert about scenarios that are challenging to assess from Earth’s vantage point.
Furthermore, it can continually enhance its knowledge without the necessity of transmitting extensive data to Earth,” explained Chen Junrui, spokesperson for STAR.VISION, a developer headquartered in Hangzhou.
Also designated as WJ-1A, the satellite was launched on August 11, 2023, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center situated in Inner Mongolia, propelled into space by a CERES-1 Y7 rocket. Alongside the “WonderJourney” satellite, the rocket transported six additional satellites, including Xiguang-1 01, earmarked for tasks such as Earth observation to support areas like natural resources, agriculture, forestry, smart cities, and disaster response.
Among these satellites was Starpool I-1B, strategically designed for functions such as remote sensing, inter-satellite and satellite-to-ground communication, as well as navigation augmentation.
“[String Edge AI Platform] acts as the satellite’s cognitive center, allowing for real-time observation and processing. In the conventional approach, data necessitates transmission back to a ground control center for analysis and directives. However, WJ-1A possesses the ability to manage this procedure instantaneously,” elaborated Chen.
China’s Cutting-Edge AI-Centric Satellite
“WJ-1A represents China’s pioneering AI-centric satellite, featuring an intelligent operating system at its core,” stated Wang Chunhui, co-founder and chief technology officer of the company, in a recent announcement.
The satellite is on the verge of being operational. Its primary mission entails conducting system assessments and validating the effectiveness of diverse intelligent applications within the orbital environment.
These applications encompass establishing connections with upcoming smart vehicles and drones, along with monitoring ecological factors like forest fires, soil moisture levels, and pest-related ailments.
“With advanced features including high-resolution cameras, near-infrared cameras, and VR panoramic cameras, WJ-1A is geared for an array of image processing functions,” added Chen. “Through the understanding of image semantics, it can discern between forests and oceans.
Additionally, it boasts capabilities for target recognition, lossless data compression, and data refinement.”
In contrast to conventional satellites, this satellite is capable of scrutinizing an expanse of 3,861 square miles (10,000 square kilometers) and tracking objects within a matter of hours, a task that would typically span around 180 days.
Furthermore, the satellite is outfitted with communication capabilities and is currently undergoing enhancements to evolve into an AI assistant in space. Similar to interacting with ChatGPT, ground-based users will have the ability to engage in verbal exchanges with the satellite.
An Additional 19 Are in the Pipeline
“It’s akin to an unexplored ‘cognitive center’; to enhance its intelligence, a broader spectrum of users across different sectors is required to instruct it,” remarked Chen.
Chen revealed plans for “WonderJourney” to enhance its satellite network, reaching a constellation of 20 satellites by the conclusion of 2024, through collaborative efforts with partners. This expansion aims to enhance both coverage and communication efficiency.
Conclusion
Chinese, a commercial rocket has successfully launched satellites, including the advanced AI-powered “WonderJourney.” This satellite operates autonomously in space, aims to develop self-governing spacecraft, and holds applications for various industries. The satellite’s cognitive abilities, rapid data analysis, and upcoming constellation expansion showcase China’s technological strides.
