The European Space Agency (ESA) has awarded CGI with a contract to develop a dynamic predictive routing (DPR) tool to support its network technologies.
Under an 18-month deal the company will work on improving routing protocols for technologies within low Earth orbit of hybrid low/medium/geostationary orbit.
A spokesperson for CGI said the tool supports the need to equip satellite networks with software defined networking (SDN), which in turn can support network automation and streamlined services.
This should enable the adoption of IP services in meshed networks in the space and ground segments, and support satellite network operators in reducing latency and increasing throughput.
He added that ESA aims to have the solution operational within the next two years.
CGI is partnering with TESAT-Spacecom, a specialist in telecommunication payloads and laser communications, to develop the project, which builds on its CGI AccelerateAI3160 AI accelerator platform.
Competitiveness programme
The contract has been agreed under ESA’s ARTES Core Competitiveness programme, which includes the support of the UK Space Agency.
Jaime Reed, vice president for CGI’s UK and Australia space data platforms and applications, said: “Dynamic predictive routing will enable satellite network operators to make use of machine learning (ML) and AI to enhance their complex route planning.
“We are combining our AI and ML expertise, with our heritage in satellite planning for mega constellations, to deliver a platform that enables satcom providers to identify innovative ways to be more efficient and effective.”
