Polish Astronaut is back to Earth. LeopardISS continues to process data in orbit
Polish Astronaut is back to Earth. LeopardISS continues to process data in orbit
Aktualności

Polish Astronaut is back to Earth. LeopardISS continues to process data in orbit

23 July 2025

With the end of Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski’s stay aboard the International Space Station, KP Labs and the Poznań University of Technology are presenting the first results of the LeopardISS experiment – a project aimed at testing advanced artificial intelligence algorithms in orbit. The device remains operational on the Station as part of the IGNIS mission and will support future research teams.
LeopardISS: a flexible orbital lab for AI development
LeopardISS is a Data Processing Unit (DPU), which enables the testing of machine learning algorithms directly in orbit – without the need to launch a dedicated satellite. Created entirely by KP Labs from Gliwice, the unit allows experiments to be conducted in a repeatable and flexible manner. The unit was delivered to the ISS on April 22, 2025, as part of the SpaceX CRS-32 mission and became active on the Station after the arrival of the Polish astronaut on June 26.
The device was integrated into the ICE Cubes platform located in the European Columbus module – a universal and modular system that allows researchers to conduct studies in microgravity conditions. The platform provides power, data exchange capabilities, and real-time communication with Earth.
The first experiment carried out aboard the device involved testing algorithms for autonomous generation of 3D terrain maps – a key element for future rover missions to the Moon and Mars. These algorithms allow robotic systems to independently analyze the surrounding terrain and make decisions without the need for constant control from Earth. The algorithms were developed, optimized, and deployed by scientists and students from the Poznań University of Technology, the Politechnika Innowacje spinoff, and ESA's Φ-lab Poland.
Polish technology tested in orbit
LeopardISS is one of thirteen experiments conducted as part of the IGNIS mission – the first Polish scientific and technological mission to the International Space Station. The mission is organized by the Ministry of Development and Technology and the Polish Space Agency in cooperation with the European Space Agency (ESA). The mission is led by Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski – the first Polish astronaut in 47 years to go into space. The mission provides Polish companies and scientific institutions with access to the Station’s research infrastructure.
Thanks to experience gained during the design and launch of the Intuition-1 satellite, KP Labs engineers have created a device that allows remote deployment and validation of various types of algorithms – from image classification and change detection to encryption and data compression. The device enables Polish scientific institutions – such as the Poznań University of Technology – to gain “flight heritage” for their algorithms and technologies, without the necessity of building their own satellite.
What's next?
In the coming months, new research teams and companies will conduct further experiments using the LeopardISS platform, enabling broader testing of technologies in space and supporting their readiness for operation in real-world space missions. Scientists from ESA’s Φ-lab Poland will continue refining the terrain classification algorithm, among others, using a lunar analog site located at the University. Their long-term goal is to participate in a future lunar rover mission. This experience will benefit both the researchers and students of the Poznań University of Technology, preparing them for work in the space sector.

Contact:
Julia Wiśniowska
jwisniowska@kplabs.pl
+48 530 523 011

Maciek Myśliwiec
maciek@spaceagency.biz
+48 884 778 177

About KP Labs
KP Labs accelerates space exploration through autonomous missions and robotics. The company develops integrated solutions combining hardware, software, and data processing algorithms. KP Labs is currently participating in 9 space missions and has completed over 35 R&D projects for the European Space Agency, NASA, and private sector clients. The company employs around 80 specialists and has the status of a Research and Development Center granted by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. In November 2024, KP Labs was awarded the President of the Republic of Poland Prize in the 'SME Leader' category.

About ESA Φ-lab Poland
ESA Φ-lab Poland is an ESA research center that supports the development of technologies in the fields of Earth observation and space exploration – including intelligent and autonomous robotic systems. The center conducts experiments with advanced technologies, including at its own research campus in Kąkolewo, and supports the commercialization and transfer of these technologies to applications on Earth. The activities of the Polish branch of ESA strengthen the role of Polish institutions in the European space ecosystem.

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