How many of us have dreamed about going to space? And how many of us have actually gone? The answers are most of us and very few of us, respectively — to be exact, just 711 people (from the dawn of space travel through the end of last year) have traveled to the final frontier.

What about two trips to space? Even fewer.

Just over three years ago, our Chairman Lane Bess, and his son, Cameron, made history as the first father-son duo to travel to space together.

Lane Bess weightless on Mission NS-19 – photo credit Blue Origin

So we’re pretty excited that tomorrow, Lane will make more history with his second celestial journey. We’re also excited about Blaize’s potential to contribute in the future to this new era of space exploration.

Space: the bleeding edge of edge computing

Edge computing may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about space, but it’s crucial to the emerging space industry. In cybersecurity, an “air-gapped” environment is one where systems are completely isolated from any external networks, including the Internet. So we see space as the ultimate air-gapped environment because of its vast distances, limited connectivity, and harsh environments.

Because of these factors, systems in space must be able to operate autonomously and make decisions independently, without relying on constant input from Earth. This is why edge computing, which allows for processing data locally, is so crucial in space applications.

Edge AI takes this to the next level. Edge AI is crucial for space exploration because it enables real-time decision-making in the face of limited communication bandwidth and significant delays.  Processing data onboard spacecraft allows for autonomous operations and reduces reliance on Earth-based control.  This localized processing is essential for tasks like navigation, obstacle avoidance, and rapid responses to unforeseen events in the harsh space environment.

Mission NS-19 landing in the Texas desert, December 11, 2021 – photo credit Blue Origin

Here on Earth, as autonomous vehicles that are disconnected from networks and data centers become part of our normal lives, Edge AI will lead the way. Lane has been a big proponent of that effort, recognizing the significant potential of this emerging market.

We believe Blaize’s edge technology will play an important role in the future of space robotics and defense systems, which will require instantaneous AI processing capability without the latency and delay of connecting to data centers. Computing happens right there, on the edge.

Lane’s second space mission isn’t just a personal achievement; it reflects a new era of space exploration.  With edge computing well-positioned to improve space technology through increased efficiency, reliability, and faster decision-making, Blaize is incredibly proud to have our visionary Chairman in the cosmos.

Safe travels Lane and crew! We know it will be out of this world!