The Space Telescope Just Got a Brain Upgrade
- By CDOTrends editors
- February 24, 2025

South Australian company AICRAFT will provide edge computing modules to South Korea’s CONTEC Space Optics (CSO) for its advanced space telescopes.
Through the partnership, AICRAFT will design and manufacture an upgraded version of its standard Pulsar edge computing modules to support ultra-high-speed processing and complement CSO’s advanced optical systems. Two modules have been ordered by CSO.
“This collaboration underscores AICRAFT’s commitment to driving innovation in space technology,” said the co-founder and chief executive officer of AICRAFT, Dr Tony Scoleri.
“By integrating our edge computing solutions with CSO’s state-of-the-art optical payloads, we are aiming to set a new standard for satellite-based intelligence and imaging.”
The partnership is expected to yield transformative advancements in satellite technology and operations, benefiting industries such as agriculture, defense, disaster management, and environmental monitoring.
AICRAFT designs and manufactures smart sensors, tailored systems, and electronic boards powered by artificial intelligence (AI).
The company specializes in purpose-built electronics and advanced semiconductor technology to craft ultra-compact, high-speed, low-power embedded AI solutions for high-performance computing.
CONTEC Space Optics (CSO) specializes in designing, integrating, and delivering advanced optical payloads for surveillance, reconnaissance, and Earth observation missions.
This project will provide robust data management and analysis capabilities directly on the satellite. The two modules that were ordered will handle vast amounts of imaging data efficiently, reducing latency and enabling real-time insights for critical missions.
This deal is the second order from a South Korean company, reaffirming AICRAFT’s position as a trusted provider of cutting-edge AI solutions in the country for industries requiring high-performance and reliable technologies.
“Partnering with AICRAFT aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver groundbreaking optical systems for the global space community,” said Dr Youngwan (Young) Choi, chief executive officer of CONTEC Space Optics.
Image credit: iStockphoto/dima_zel