Aerospace Corp. and Google partner to use AI to predict solar storms
SUNNYVALE, Calif. - The Aerospace Corporation, a nonprofit managing the United States' federally-funded research and development center focused on space, has partnered with Google Public Sector to improve space weather forecasting using artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing. The collaboration aims to enhance the ability to predict geomagnetic storms days in advance with greater accuracy and speed. These storms, caused by solar activity, can disrupt vital infrastructure, including telecommunications, internet services, and power grids.
Predicting such events has long been difficult due to the vast amount of complex data involved. For example, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Solar Dynamics Observatory captures around 70,000 images daily, each containing critical information about solar activity. Processing decades of data across multiple wavelengths to identify patterns has been a significant challenge for researchers.
The Aerospace Corporation is leveraging its expertise in space science alongside Google’s advanced tools, such as Vertex AI and high-performance computing, to improve forecasting.
Related: NASA taps Viasat for Near Space Network direct-to-Earth communications
"This collaboration is a game-changer for space weather forecasting and a powerful example of how innovation and partnership can drive national security and societal impact," said Kevin Bell, senior vice president of Aerospace's Engineering and Technology Group. "Together, we're not just advancing the science of space weather forecasting; we're also strengthening the resilience of the systems and critical infrastructure that underpin our modern way of life."
The effort is expected to benefit various sectors, from satellite communications to GPS navigation and power grid stability. Improved forecasting could reduce the risk of widespread outages caused by geomagnetic storms while supporting national security by protecting space assets and ensuring mission readiness for the U.S. Space Force.
"We are proud to partner with The Aerospace Corporation to advance scientific discovery and address critical challenges facing our nation," said Jim Kelly, vice president of federal sales at Google Public Sector. "This collaboration demonstrates the transformative potential of AI to benefit society as a whole."
Jamie Whitney
Jamie Whitney joined the staff of Military & Aerospace Electronics and Intelligent Aerospace. He brings seven years of print newspaper experience to the aerospace and defense electronics industry.
Whitney oversees editorial content for the Intelligent Aerospace Website, as well as produce news and features for Military & Aerospace Electronics, attend industry events, produce Webcasts, oversee print production of Military & Aerospace Electronics, and expand the Intelligent Aerospace and Military & Aerospace Electronics franchises with new and innovative content.
