EDGX Collaborates with BrainChip to Develop Disruptive Data Processing Solutions for Space

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EDGX, a Belgian SpaceTech company focused on developing disruptive intelligent space systems, and BrainChip Holdings Ltd, the world’s first commercial producer of ultra-low power, fully digital, event-based, neuromorphic AI IP, announced a collaborative agreement to develop data processing units for very demanding environments.

Space infrastructure is increasingly becoming more important in our everyday lives. Satellite based services are fundamental to global navigation, weather forecasting, secure communications, climate monitoring, and for rapid response to natural disasters, just to name a few. As the space industry is trying to become a self-sustaining economy, satellite launches are booming. EDGX recognized the growing demand and opportunity for product-driven innovation within the space industry. EDGX is developing a new data processing unit concept that mixes classic AI acceleration with neuromorphic computing to decrease onboard AI power dissipation, increase adaptability and ultimately enable autonomous learning capabilities onboard next generation satellites.

“Imagine thousands of interconnected satellites powered by next-generation AI technology inspired by the human brain, bringing real-time data connectivity for both humans and machines here on Earth. That’s what we envision at EDGX,” said Nick Destrycker, Founder and CEO at EDGX. “This is where BrainChip’s Akida technology comes into play, the event-based accelerator for AI at the edge, which coincides perfectly with our vision in developing brain-inspired data processing units for space.”

“We built the Akida roadmap with a vision to deliver high-performance, ultra-low power, self-contained processing that didn’t constantly need connection to the Cloud, which is critical for constrained environments like space,” said Peter van der Made, Founder and CTO at BrainChip. “BrainChip’s focus on combining neuromorphic principles with the benefits of the deep learning ecosystem, customization, and continuous learning, matches EDGX’s requirements for disruptive technology. We are excited to partner with them to truly push the boundaries of what is possible.”

EDGX and BrainChip are building up their partnership by signing a Non-binding Memorandum of Understanding at European Space Agency’s (ESA) EDHPC Conference, in Juan-les-Pins, France.

“What fascinates us the most about Akida is its capability to run in two different modes: Firstly, Akida can run conventional CNN, making it compatible with so many proven neural networks out there. But then, running in event-based mode, it cuts down power demand by orders of magnitude. And power is at premium in the space environment. Event based processing may easily open a door into a new realm of processing in space to do things which were not possible before,” said Laurent Hili, Microelectronics and Data Handling Engineer at ESA.