The device captures terrestrial images and processes visual data in space to detect targets like “dark ships. Credit: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.

Japanese company Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has developed a satellite system, Artificial Intelligence Retraining In Space (AIRIS), which uses artificial intelligence (AI) technology to detect ‘dark ships’ from space.

The dark ships often switch off their automatic identification system (AIS) to avoid detection, posing challenges for maritime security.

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Satellite mapping has traditionally been crucial in identifying these covert ships, but the process has been hampered by limited data transmission capacity and the need for extensive human analysis.

AIRIS, with its on-board AI, will streamline this task by selectively transmitting relevant data for efficient processing.

It combines an earth-observation camera with an AI-powered data processor. This device captures images of terrestrial objects, as well as processes the visual data in space to detect specific targets such as ‘dark ships’.

By focusing on areas where these objects are located, AIRIS can reduce the volume of data needing transmission and analysis on earth.

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Furthermore, AIRIS can be updated while in orbit. It can receive a ‘retrained’ AI model from ground control, allowing for continuous improvement of its detection algorithms.

This feature is useful for tracking vessels that switch off their AIS mid-voyage, ensuring that they remain visible to those monitoring maritime activities.

Selected as one of the demonstration themes of the Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration Programme by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), AIRIS is scheduled for launch in in 2025 aboard JAXA’s demonstration satellite RAISE-4.

MHI anticipates that AIRIS will initially be used for economic security purposes, targeting illegal fishing activities which result in significant economic and environmental losses.

The deployment of AIRIS is a significant step forward in maritime monitoring, with potential future applications extending beyond ships to include other objects like aircraft or vehicles.

As illegal activities at sea continue to pose threats, technologies like AIRIS are crucial for enhancing the security and sustainability of our oceans, stated the company.