As we continue to push the boundaries of space exploration, a crucial aspect comes into play: ensuring the safety and security of people, crafts, and cargo in Earth’s orbit and beyond. The vintage sci-fi TV show Lost in Space may have been entertaining, but it’s also a reminder of the risks involved in space travel. In an effort to mitigate these risks, TechCrunch and the Aerospace Corporation are joining forces to host a pitch competition that focuses on startups using AI/machine learning (AI/ML) to work with satellite data streams.
The Challenge: Space Domain Awareness
Space operators rely heavily on sensors in space and on the ground to gather a comprehensive understanding of what’s happening in Earth’s orbit. However, parsing, packaging, and disseminating the output of multiple data streams can be a daunting task. This scenario is often referred to as the "media streaming problem," where data needs to be collected, analyzed, and delivered to the correct audience at the right time.
Applicants for the Space Domain Awareness Challenge Pitch-off are encouraged to explore how AI/ML tool sets can be used to parse sensor data, address the media streaming challenge, and increase our understanding of satellite sensor-generated data. To support this effort, participants will have access to the following datasets:
- Telemetry Data: This dataset includes real-time information about a spacecraft’s performance, including its speed, direction, and any anomalies.
- Mission Data: This dataset provides information about a mission’s objectives, timelines, and resource allocation.
- Comms Links Data: This dataset contains information about communication links between spacecraft and ground stations.
Pitch Eligibility Requirements
To participate in the pitch competition, startups must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Early-Stage Companies: The challenge is open to early-stage companies that are in the "idea stage" up to and including "Series A stage."
- U.S. or NATO Member Country-Based Companies: Companies must be wholly owned by a U.S.-based company with a U.S.-based workforce or based in a NATO member country (including Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Norway) and authorized to participate in NATO-related business opportunities.
Prizes for Finalists
The five finalists selected for the Space Domain Awareness Challenge Pitch-off will receive:
- Five-Minute Pitch Session: Each finalist will have the opportunity to pitch their AI/ML startup on the Space Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023.
- Free Tickets: Four free tickets per team to attend Disrupt 2023 will be provided to finalists.
- Standing Demo Table or Kiosk: Finalists will receive a standing demo table or kiosk in the expo hall for all three days of Disrupt.
Additional Prize for the Winning Startup
The winning startup will also receive:
- Technical Concept Assessment and Feedback: Technical concept assessment and feedback by Aerospace technical/program experts, discussion of potential customer base, and a road show for the next stage of incubation.
Application Deadline: August 18 at 11:59 p.m. PDT
Don’t miss your chance to participate in this exciting pitch competition! Submit your application by August 18 at 11:59 p.m. PDT to be considered as one of the five finalists.
Conclusion
The Space Domain Awareness Challenge Pitch-off is an excellent opportunity for startups to showcase their innovative AI/ML solutions and contribute to the advancement of space exploration. We look forward to seeing the exciting ideas that will be presented at TC Disrupt 2023!
