Leicester University receives over £600K for AI algorithm shrinking method

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Researchers from Leicester University are developing a method to shrink artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, with the aim to enable smarter spacecraft.

A customised DJI Matrice 300 RTX drone with an AI-enabled multipurpose high-performance computing module, developed by the research team as a proof-of-concept
A customised DJI Matrice 300 RTX drone with an AI-enabled multipurpose high-performance computing module, developed by the research team as a proof-of-concept - The University of Leicester

It is one of over 20 national space projects announced by DSIT Secretary of State Peter Kyle on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow (FIA), on July 22, 2024. 

Worth £33m, the projects come from the UK Space Agency’s National Space Innovation Programme, which is designed to invest in high-potential technologies, drive innovation and unlock growth across the UK.

Specifically, Leicester’s REALM (Rapid information extraction for environmental remote sensing on board spacecraft through application of light Machine Learning models in payload computing systems) project has received £690,000 in funding. 

It will be a multidisciplinary project led by Leicester University, involving its School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences and School of Physics and Astronomy, as well as Space Park Leicester, the University’s £100m science and innovation park.

According to the researchers, the project aims to develop and demonstrate streamlined machine learning algorithms capable of complying with spacecraft power and computing performance requirements using drones.

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AI algorithms
smart spacecraft