Aethero's Innovative Shielding Paves Way for AI in Space
Delft, Wednesday, 3 July 2024.
Startup Aethero is set to launch a revolutionary computer into space, protected by a novel material called Plasteel. This breakthrough could enable AI-powered spacecraft, marking a significant leap in space exploration technology.
The Challenge of Space Radiation
Space exploration has always been hampered by the harsh conditions beyond Earth’s atmosphere, particularly radiation. Electronic components in space are susceptible to radiation damage, which can disrupt or destroy their functionality. Traditional methods involve using robust materials and additional shielding, such as aluminum, to protect these components. However, these solutions add weight and are not always effective in long-term missions.
Introducing Plasteel: A Game-Changer
Aethero, a startup based in San Francisco, has partnered with Cosmic Shielding Corporation (CSC) to address this issue using a cutting-edge material called Plasteel. Developed by CSC, Plasteel is a 3D-printed polymer composite embedded with radiation-blocking nanoparticles. This material is not only flexible but also highly effective in shielding electronic components from radiation. The name ‘Plasteel’ is inspired by the Dune novels by Frank Herbert, reflecting its futuristic capabilities.
First Mission: AetherNxN
Aethero is preparing to launch its first small computer, named AetherNxN, on SpaceX’s Transporter-11 mission this month. This computer, built on Nvidia’s Orin processor, is touted as the fastest AI-capable chip ever sent to space. The Plasteel shielding will protect it from radiation, ensuring its performance in the harsh space environment. This mission will serve as a critical test for Plasteel’s effectiveness and Aethero’s advanced AI technology.
Potential for Deep Space Exploration
The successful deployment of AetherNxN could pave the way for more advanced AI applications in space. Aethero aims to use this technology for edge processing in Earth observation data, which could significantly enhance the quality and speed of data analysis. Furthermore, this innovation could herald a new era of deep space exploration, as advanced processors protected by Plasteel could perform complex computational tasks far from Earth.
Leadership and Vision
Edward Ge, CEO and co-founder of Aethero, praised CSC’s contribution, emphasizing that advanced shielding is crucial for long-term space missions. Yanni Barghouty, CEO of CSC, highlighted the necessity of such technologies to mitigate single event effects, which he compared to a single bullet hitting a wall. Their collaboration exemplifies the synergy between innovative materials and cutting-edge computing technology, potentially transforming space exploration.