Thales and AIKO sign MoU for space software applications. Photo: Thales Alenia Space.

Thales Alenia Space is joining forces with AIKO to develop advanced software for space systems, the two companies announced April 8. The partnership will primarily study the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies to enhance the autonomous operation of satellites and space infrastructures, working in conjunction with the companies’ research and engineering teams.

With the data generated by space systems increasing exponentially and space missions becoming more and more complex, the two companies believe that advanced software solutions that can maximize the chances of mission success. They believe that AI technologies can address these needs, providing scalability and robustness in the harsh space environment.

“This MoU signals the application of AI to more complex, ambitious missions. Thales Alenia Space has a proven track record in these missions and we are delighted to be working with them. Furthermore, our partnership paves the way for missions that will address end-users’ evolving needs in terms of data volumes and information timeliness,” Lorenzo Feruglio, CEO of AIKO, said in a statement.