Metaspectral handles large data requirements of hyperspectral payloads. Its novel data compression algorithms transmit data in real time whether from orbit to ground or within terrestrial networks.

The technology will be deployed on the International Space Station to demonstrate real-time compression, streaming, and analysis of hyperspectral data from Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

The Canadian Space Agency funded Metaspectral’s novel data compression technology to measure greenhouse gasses on the Earth’s surface using satellite hyperspectral data.

“Hyperspectral imagery contains data from across the electromagnetic spectrum which, when analysed with artificial intelligence (AI), can be used to monitor time-sensitive environmental events on Earth such as wildfires, methane leaks, and more. The same data can also be leveraged by the defence industry for real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance,” said Metaspectral CEO and co-founder Francis Doumet.

“I believe that we can bring significant value to the nascent local commercial space market with the years of research behind our space-ready technology. Especially with Kanyini including a hyperspectral payload, there is potential for our software to immediately provide value and be used by SmartSat CRC for managing, distributing, and analysing the data,” said Metaspectral chief technology officer and founder Migel Tissera.

The Australian Space Agency opened in February 2020 in Adelaide. It announced in 2022 that Kanyini, the first satellite designed and constructed in South Australia, is set to launch this year. Kanyini will include a hyperspectral imaging payload, and will be managed and operated by the SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (CRC).

The South Australia Space Innovation Fund financed the program, which kicked off this month and runs until the end of August 2023.