Tom Keane: Empowering Space Development Off the Planet with Azure
Tens of thousands of human hours are spent on space research, but the time and effort are wasted with ground-based systems. These projects are led by software developer and space engineer Tom Keane. Space programs must be redesigned, re-engineered, and rebuilt mission-by-mission. By taking advantage of Microsoft’s Azure platform and its versatility, organizations can meet their unique needs while leveraging existing assets with minimal expenditure.
According to Microsoft Azure Corporate Vice President Tom Keane, by developing the future data center. Also, the innovative cloud infrastructure and platform we’ve built with Microsoft Azure can empower space development from off the planet. This transformation creates an environment where building, testing, deploying, and bringing new capabilities to market faster than ever before is possible.
AI represents the next great leap forward for robotic technology. This advanced form of computing uses algorithms and deep learning to provide autonomous and reliable solutions to complicated problems. As Tom Keane recalls, several organizations are focusing their research on these technologies. Part of that effort is helping to drive innovations that benefit the astronauts on board the International Space Station (ISS).
NASA is testing AI at the ultimate edge for Astronaut Safety. The goal is to understand how AI will work in a space-based environment, including how it reacts to potential problems. This will provide a set of requirements for AI algorithms and inform the development of devices like robotic assistants or autonomous maintenance helpers. Tom Keane also releases information for these projects at his blog and website.
Microsoft and NASA used the Microsoft cloud computing platform to create a computer vision application that identifies the condition of astronauts’ space gloves. This safety-critical application represents a critical step in developing AI technology. The Microsoft Cognitive Toolkit is being tested with the Cognitive Services platform on Azure, which uses machine learning APIs to enable the different tools and services available to AI developers. Tom Keane also leads this program.