Israel Aerospace Unveils AI-Powered Satellite Operation and Management System

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has developed SatGuard an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered system for operating and managing observation and communication satellites.

The new SatGuard system is designed to extend the life of satellites deployed into orbit. Powered by AI, big data and machine learning, the system detects anomalies and other irregularities in the satellite’s operations. SatGuard’s development is based on years of focus and experience in space, accumulated by IAI’s Systems, Missiles and Space Group, and as part of IAI's internal Innovation Center.

Telemetry information received from the satellites enables the system to analyze trends, and identify irregularities and changes that occur in the satellite, address them, and prevent future anomalies. SatGuard was built as part of the IAI Innovation Center accelerator program, operated in collaboration with Starburst, a global start-up accelerator specializing in aerospace. The POC of the new system was done on data received from Venus, a research satellite developed and built by IAI for the Israeli and French space agencies.

Some measurements tested and monitored by SatGuard included sub-systems navigation accuracy, temperatures, electric currents and voltages, dynamical behavior, communication sub-systems, and more. The analysis of satellite activity data over the years of activity in space is made possible through AI, big data, and machine learning that can later develop a system that supports decisions and problem solving for IAI’s satellites.

IAI has opened an innovation center, called SPARX Innovation Lab, within the Systems, Missiles and Space Group. The center focuses on seed-round companies and seeks to develop broad ventures from all lines of business within the group. The center emphasizes open and organic innovation and seeks to identify future technological trends.