A study of cognitive computing in nanosatellite constellations for synergic autonomy in CisLunar space

Abstract

The small satellites have been changing the paradigm of space technology and implementation techniques ever since the NewSpace era has begun a stiff competition and dynamic atmosphere for innovation and recreation. Nanosatellites (ranging from 1 to 10 Kg) have been of significant importance since they have been launched and experimented in the past few decades. The constellations of these satellites will be a test of technology and management in due course of time. The complexity of operations and skilled functioning of the satellites in LEO and beyond is becoming crucial for the space industry and scientific communities. This paper will demonstrate the challenges, applications, and strategies to implement Artificial Intelligence (AI) optimally to make these constellations efficient and productive under the given scenarios and constraints. A thorough investigation through literature study has been initially done to observe and monitor the recent developments and envision the futuristic implementation of cognitive computing in CisLunar space. Hence, a detailed description of strategizing this artificial intelligence implementation in three classified regions as Low Earth Orbits (LEO), Transfer Region (TR), and Lunar Orbits (LO) to emphasize their crucial role in operating nanosatellites is significantly presented. (c) 2023 COSPAR. Published by Elsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/ by-nc-nd/4.0/).