Space Working Group (SWG)

Cycle 1 of the SWG activities will focus on the architectural design of the Blockchain framework tailored for AI/ML model integrity and traceability. This task involves requirement gathering and analysis, where the SWG engages with potential users and stakeholders to understand their specific needs, challenges, and expectations if blockchain and watermarking could be used to reliably track and document the pedigree and integrity of AI models and the data used to train and tune those models.

The SWG’s initial investigation will examine the value of combining Artificial intelligence (AI) and Digital Ledger Technologies (DLT) to revolutionize GPS services and in-space manufacturing. Paths toward accomplishing this goal could include:

1. Enhanced GPS Accuracy with AI: AI can improve GPS accuracy by predicting and correcting real-time errors. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data, including satellite signals and environmental factors, to predict and correct inaccuracies caused by factors like atmospheric conditions or satellite clock errors. These improvements could result in more precise location tracking, essential for various applications such as autonomous vehicles, precision agriculture, and logistics.

2. Secure and Trustworthy GPS Data with Blockchain: Blockchain can ensure the integrity and security of GPS data by creating a decentralized and immutable ledger of location information. Each GPS data point could be timestamped, encrypted, and stored on a blockchain network, making it tamper-proof and providing a transparent location history record. This advance would enhance trust in GPS data for critical applications like navigation, asset tracking, and emergency services.

3. Autonomous Navigation in Space: AI-powered navigation systems combined with blockchain-backed GPS data can enable autonomous navigation for spacecraft and satellites. By integrating AI algorithms that can adapt to dynamic space environments and predict orbital trajectories, spacecraft can navigate autonomously, avoiding collisions and optimizing their routes. Blockchain technology can ensure the integrity and security of the navigation data transmitted between spacecraft and ground stations, reducing the risk of interference or tampering.

4. In-Space Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management: Blockchain can facilitate transparent and efficient supply chain management for in-space manufacturing by recording every step of the production process, from sourcing raw materials to delivering finished products. AI-automated smart contracts can streamline transactions and enforce agreements between different parties involved in the supply chain, such as manufacturers, suppliers, and logistics providers. This improvement could reduce costs, enhance traceability, and improve efficiency in space-based manufacturing operations.

5. Resource Management and Allocation: AI algorithms can analyze data from satellites and other space assets to optimize resource management and allocation in space habitats or exploration missions. By predicting resource needs, identifying potential risks, and recommending optimal utilization strategies, AI can help maximize the efficiency and sustainability of space-based activities. Blockchain technology can ensure transparent and auditable record-keeping of resource transactions and allocations, enhancing stakeholder accountability and trust.

By integrating AI and blockchain technologies, GPS services can become more accurate, secure, and reliable. At the same time, in-space manufacturing can benefit from improved supply chain management, autonomous navigation, and resource optimization. These advancements could pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient utilization of space resources and exploration capabilities.

The global economy is undergoing a significant shift in dependency from terrestrial networks to the space segment. In-space manufacturing is an essential driver of this transition. Over the next ten years, this will result in nearly 25,000 satellites launched into space, US$1.2 trillion in commercial retail, and more than 500,000 petabytes of data. This development highlights the economic and data security risks associated with the vastly expanded aperture of vulnerability created by the dramatically increased dependency on secure, reliable, and auditable space infrastructure GPS services.

Addressing this need for GPS operational security will increasingly rely on AI. Cyber insecurities in space will hinder economic development and increase societal risks. The Cyber-Assured Space Internet Device (CASI-D) project will determine the feasibility of using DLT and watermarking to reduce cyber insecurities by reliably tracking and auditing the pedigree and integrity of AI models and the data used to train and tune those models. This research is foundational to currently identified paths toward revolutionizing GPS services and in-space manufacturing.

Cycle 1 of the SWG activities will focus on the architectural design of the Blockchain framework tailored for AI/ML model integrity and traceability. This task involves requirement gathering and analysis, where the SWG engages with potential users and stakeholders to understand their specific needs, challenges, and expectations if blockchain and watermarking could be used to reliably track and document the pedigree and integrity of AI models and the data used to train and tune those models. Subsequently, the workgroup shall move into the design phase, focusing on architecting a robust AI infrastructure incorporating digital watermarking and DLT.

The Space Working Group meets on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 3p E/12n P. For more information on this working group, please email operations@digifoundry.org.