Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has successfully demonstrated its AI-based object detection system, AIRIS, in orbit. This system, which identifies ships from satellite imagery, utilizes a state-of-the-art space-grade microprocessor unit developed in collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
AIRIS, or Artificial Intelligence Retraining In Space, integrates an AI data processor with an earth observation camera created by the Tokyo University of Science. Launched aboard JAXA’s RAISE-4 small demonstration satellite in December 2025, AIRIS is part of JAXA’s Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration Program.
The recent in-orbit demonstration confirmed the system’s effectiveness in detecting ships from maritime imagery captured during its space operations. MHI plans to enhance the AI’s capabilities by retraining models on Earth using operational imagery, which will allow for remote updates to the onboard AI.
This project is part of MHI’s broader initiative to advance space technology and bolster Japan’s capabilities in space development. The demonstration also includes testing the SOISOC4 microprocessor itself in orbit, further contributing to the evolution of space equipment technologies.
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