Agencies like NASA and the Space Force focus on space missions, science, and security. One key idea is data dominance. This means using artificial intelligence (AI) to handle information fast, argue SpaceNews writers Victoria Da Poian and Eric Lyness.

In space, AI helps spacecraft decide things quickly. AI tools analyze engineering problems and spot science chances. They save fuel, pick important data to send to Earth, and find patterns.

The goal is spacecraft that think for themselves without humans controlling every step. This changes how we explore space. Instead of waiting for Earth’s orders, spacecraft could act alone. Imagine a spacecraft at Saturn’s moon Enceladus. It collects data from water plumes. With AI onboard, it studies the data right away. It finds signs of life and picks new spots to check. No need to wait for Earth. This uses edge computing, where machines process data where they are.

Challenges in space AI

Smart spacecraft face big hurdles. Power onboard is limited. Spacecraft need energy for moving, talking, and experiments. Adding AI takes more power, but weight limits make this tough. Harsh space conditions, like heat and radiation, also challenge hardware. Communication is another problem. Bandwidth, or data speed, is low in space.

Trusting AI is hard too. Scientists call it a “black box” because its decisions confuse them. This matters a lot for missions hunting life.

AI in space sparks hope and wonder. To make it work, experts build better hardware. They improve data tools like the Deep Space Network, which sends signals far. Testing new tech in space proves it works. Right now, missions grab only what they can send back. AI could change that. Smart machines pick the best data to share. More tests on simple missions will help. Private companies join in too. They bring fresh ideas for AI and data handling. Together, this builds a future where spacecraft explore smarter and farther.