The space artificial intelligence (AI) comprehensive solution corporation TelePIX successfully launched the next-generation AI star tracker for deep space navigation, developed in collaboration with LK SAMYANG, on the 24th.
The next-generation AI star tracker was launched into space aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 at 2:26 p.m. local time on the 23rd from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. It has now successfully entered the mission orbit and begun initial operations.
TelePIX and LK SAMYANG signed an agreement for the joint development of the deep space navigation star tracker last April, and in February this year, they entered into a business agreement for space launch testing and mass production commercialization.
The next-generation AI star tracker is an advanced autonomous navigation system designed to enable satellites to determine their position and perform navigation without communication support from ground stations in deep space, such as on the Moon and Mars. Previously, ground stations had to continuously monitor satellites and control their orbits; however, by equipping satellites with star trackers, they can calculate navigation independently. It is a key technology for exploring deep space that is far from ground stations.
The next-generation AI star tracker combines wide-field ultra-high-resolution cameras with high-performance image processing algorithms to observe the relative positions of celestial bodies such as stars and planets, enabling satellites to accurately calculate their position and orbit autonomously based on this data. Compared to earlier star trackers that could only measure the orientation of satellites, this new functionality brings it closer to true autonomous navigation.
The two companies plan to verify system performance through this trial operation and pursue further research and development and commercialization to apply it to deep space missions, such as lunar and Martian exploration.
Hong Kyung-woo, head of the Future Innovation Research Team at TelePIX, said, “This launch of the star tracker marks the first step for TelePIX’s space AI technology to play a significant role in the field of deep space exploration navigation.” He added, “We will continue to enhance autonomous navigation technology to strengthen Korea’s competitiveness in space technology.”
An official from LK SAMYANG noted, “It is significant that the combination of LK SAMYANG’s optical technology and TelePIX’s AI technology has successfully demonstrated key technologies for deep space exploration,” and added, “We will lead the global deep space navigation market through continuous cooperation.”