Northrop Grumman is increasing its use of tools from NVIDIA. This includes using NVIDIA’s Omniverse, a platform for creating virtual simulations, to work on space projects. The company is also using NVIDIA’s Isaac Lab, a framework for training artificial intelligence (AI). This will help develop AI for spacecraft that can make decisions on their own.
The goal is to create robotics technology that works from start to finish for tasks in challenging environments, like space. Northrop Grumman plans to use this technology for future spacecraft activities, such as docking, which is when two spacecraft connect in space, servicing, which involves maintaining or repairing spacecraft, and inspecting spacecraft while they orbit Earth. These advancements will make missions more capable and efficient.
Advancing spacecraft operations with AI
Northrop Grumman is also using agentic AI, which can independently create and carry out plans. This AI will be used in all stages of spacecraft operations, from planning missions to executing commands. This technology will allow spacecraft to perform complex tasks automatically, reducing the need for human involvement. In the future, this AI could improve existing spacecraft systems, making them more effective and lowering the costs of running missions.
Combining Northrop Grumman's space expertise with NVIDIA’s AI technology could lead to innovative solutions. These solutions will support more advanced missions while being reliable and cost-effective.
“By applying our extensive space knowledge and mission expertise to NVIDIA’s advanced AI technologies, we are poised to deliver innovative and high-assurance AI to enable new, more complex missions, with faster planning and significantly lower operating costs,” says Rob Fleming in a Northrop Grumman press release.
AI that enables spacecraft to make decisions and perform tasks like docking, servicing, and inspections autonomously, can improve mission efficiency and reduce costs. These innovations could enhance current spacecraft operations and support future exploration, making space missions more reliable and accessible while pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology.