AI Technology Heads to the ISS as Part of the IGNIS Mission in Spring 2025

04 December 2024

KP Labs, a company specializing in artificial intelligence technologies for the space sector, has completed the integration process of its data processing unit. The LeopardISS system has taken the shape of a Cube designed to validate AI algorithms in the unique space environment. As of November, all required procedures, including compatibility verification with the ICE Cubes Facility (ICF) operated by the ICE Cubes Service, have been finalized. The unit has been confirmed to be fully compatible with the ISS infrastructure and is ready for orbital operation. Currently, LeopardISS is at the ALTEC facility in Turin, awaiting its launch as part of the XXX mission in the second quarter of 2025.

The LeopardISS project, developed jointly with the European Space Agency, enables researchers, entrepreneurs, and students to test and improve AI and machine learning algorithms in actual space conditions, a critical step in achieving the so-called flight heritage. This allows technology to be validated for space use without the need for deploying an independent satellite. LeopardISS is also a significant step forward in the development of Edge Computing and Space-Based Data Centers, which are expected to play a key role in future space exploration.

A highlight of the mission will be the flight of Polish project astronaut Sławosz Uznański in spring 2025. During his time in space, Uznański will engage in various activities, including working with LeopardISS as part of his scientific and technological agenda. This will involve assessing the unit's functionality and supporting its operation, alongside conducting other experiments and utilizing advanced technologies developed by Polish engineers.

Once onboard the station, LeopardISS will be accommodated inside the ICE Cubes Facility in the Columbus module; the platform provides power and data to the payload, as well as real-time connectivity with ground, enabling the KP Labs team to monitor and interact with the payload in real-time.

"LeopardISS demonstrates that we can meet the most demanding challenges in the space sector. Completing the tests and confirming compatibility with the ISS infrastructure is a milestone in our preparations for the XXX mission. Providing access to AI algorithms and data processing validation in space conditions opens opportunities for research, academic, and commercial entities. I am confident that the experience gained from this mission will contribute to developing our partners' projects and unlock new opportunities on the international stage,"

said Michał Zachara, COO of KP Labs.

LeopardISS will also support research conducted by Poznan University of Technology, which is developing tools for 3D image mapping functional in planetary rover missions. In the project's next phase, selected scientists, institutions, and businesses will have the opportunity to deploy their own algorithms on LeopardISS.

“Every stage of the project was meticulously planned to meet the stringent requirements of the International Space Station (ISS). This ensures not only the reliable operation of the device but also the complete safety of the astronaut who will operate the system aboard the station, while also addressing critical aspects such as cybersecurity.The development of the Leopard Data Processing Unit was carried out at our headquarters in Gliwice. Its integration took place in controlled conditions within our cleanroom, and the testing campaign utilized resources such as our thermal chamber. This allowed us to fully leverage our infrastructure, enabling the design, construction, and comprehensive testing of advanced space technologies.“We are eagerly awaiting the moment we connect with LeopardISS on the ISS to activate the first algorithms,”

says Michał Gumiela, Head of System Engineering at KP Labs.

KP Labs' autonomous data processing technology has already been tested for over a year in orbit by the Polish satellite Intuition-1. The Leopard DPU processed hyperspectral images and transmitted detailed planetary surface data back to Earth. This onboard processing capability accelerates responses to detected phenomena, shortens analysis time, and reduces data transmission and processing costs.

Media Contact
Julia Wrazidło
tel. +48 530 523 011
e-mail: jwrazidlo@kplabs.pl

About KP Labs
Founded in 2016, KP Labs is a Polish company in the New Space sector, aiming to accelerate space exploration through the development of autonomous mission operations and robotic technologies. The company provides comprehensive solutions, including a fully integrated package of hardware, software, and in-house developed algorithms for onboard satellite data processing. KP Labs participates in 7 space missions and implements over 25 projects for the European Space Agency (ESA), NASA, and private sector clients, actively contributing to international missions. The team consists of approximately 80 specialists, and KP Labs holds the status of a Research and Development Center, granted by the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education. In November 2024, the company received the President of Poland Award in the "SME Leader" category.For more information, visit: https://kplabs.space