SpaceX and Google both said no. Now his software is riding a SpaceX rocket next to Google’s

What happened

Rama Afullo, after being rejected by Google and SpaceX, founded Satlyt to develop open-source software for satellites. The company's software is set to launch on a SpaceX rocket, aiming to enable shared computing in space by allowing multiple satellites to work together.

Why it matters

Satlyt's approach could reduce costs and improve efficiency for satellite operations by enabling AI-driven decision-making on spacecraft, which is crucial as the number of satellites in orbit increases.

• Satlyt's open-source approach to satellite computing could democratize access to space-based AI.
• AI on satellites can significantly reduce data transmission costs and improve operational efficiency.
• The growing number of satellites in orbit presents a significant opportunity for space-based computing solutions.

The bigger picture

Satlyt's software could lead to more efficient satellite operations, reducing costs for satellite operators and enabling new applications in space computing.

Satlyt is positioning itself as a key player in the emerging field of orbital computing by offering open-source software that enables shared computing across satellites, aiming to reduce costs and improve efficiency in space operations.

Technical details

• Satlyt's software runs AI models on satellites, such as Google DeepMind's Gemma AI model.
• The software processes sensor data onboard, reducing the need for data transmission to Earth.
• Satlyt's system allows multiple satellites to share computing workloads, creating a shared computing cloud in space.
• The company uses existing satellite hardware, such as that from TakeMe2Space, to host its software.

FAQ