With the problems of our ecosystem, it is important that we explore all options on how to survive. While some look to improve our planet, others consider the options around us in outer space. Already explorations are underway to figure out if there is another planet that is habitable and how to get us there. One of our greatest assets with this is Artificial Intelligence. It has been helping to solve our problem at a faster rate than we used to before. And with each new advancement, we are finding that there are even more ways that AI can help as we navigate the stars.
1. Assisting astronauts
In many science fictions films, main characters are being shadowed by AI robots that help with many different tasks. This foreshadowing in cinema could possibly be a goal for our reality with the development of Artificial Intelligence. We could craft robots to help assist astronauts as they work outside the space station where there is limited resources and the threat of death is very high. Whether carrying tools, or providing guidance on how to handle an issue, these little helpers can be the difference between life and death.
2. Designing and planning
By using AI to help with the designing and planning of future shuttles and stations, it is possible to reduce the element of risk for malfunction and weak spots in the structure as well as increase the production rate immensely. Researchers have been working to create a system that would help with the initial mission designs based upon the information of previous launches. This makes the job of preparing for a new trip to the stars a lot less time consuming.
3. Data processing
Whenever a satellite collects data and sends it back, this information cannot be quickly assessed by a single person within a lunch hour like is seen on television shows or in movies. It comes in large chunks and most time must be worked to piece back together. This takes a very long time to be processed and right when it ends another batch comes in and the work begins again. With an AI, the information can be processed at a faster rate and improve our understanding of what is out there in outer space in real time. The faster we understand, the quicker we can make the great leap into the great beyond.
4. Safe travel
One of the biggest issues that astronauts must face when in outer space is the challenge of space debris. Ranging in all different sizes and shapes, the smallest piece can be as equally as dangerous as the biggest. And with nothing to stop their momentum as they move hundreds of miles an hour around the planet, this can endanger both the lives of the astronauts and the safety of the shuttles, satellites, and stations that hover up there. With Artificial Intelligence, the computer that guides these instruments could come up with maneuvers to get them out of the pathway of these dangerous elements.
5. Navigation in space
With the use of satellites and global imaging, it is not hard for a person to visit any spot on the planet from the comfort of their computer. Mapping services can help a person feel as though they are standing in front of monuments located across the Earth. So why isn’t it possible to use this same type of technology to map out other celestial bodies? With an AI, a satellite could be sent out to map the Moon or other planets and relay the images back to Earth so that when the time comes and the technology supports it, astronauts will already have a good look at where they are going and what to expect.