Research/ SPACE AI & AUTONOMY
Computer Vision for Space Exploration
Dharini Raghavan, Bhavana B Rao
Perception & State EstimationOpenAlex topic: Advanced Vision and Imaging · Learning-based MethodsOpenAlex topic: Advanced Neural Network Applications · Autonomy, Task Planning & OperationsOpenAlex keyword: spacecraft autonomy
Spirit & Opportunity (MER)named in abstract, keywords
OpenAlexAdvanced Vision and Imaging · Advanced Neural Network Applications · Planetary Science and Exploration
It would not be wrong to tell that the times we live in is the dawn of a new space era. When all the major private and public space sectors are in the race to be the first to reach Mars, the interplanetary missions are gaining immense momentousness. Not only mars, but Europa and Venus are also considered to harbor life. Autonomy is a fundamental part of achieving these goals of interplanetary mission. Deep learning and computer vision can be used to achieve the spacecraft autonomy. This article addresses the role of computer vision in space applications and the progress of computer vision on mars exploration. It also summarizes the stereo vision algorithm which was used in the NASA MER mission which is an exemplary showcase of computer vision in space exploration.