Management from the International Space Station (ISS) revealed a landmark contract with Helios Technologies, one of Europe’s foremost technology megacorps focusing on advanced computing and artificial intelligence.
Under the multidecade, estimated $500 million collaboration, Helios Technologies will deliver advanced hardware and software systems that will enhance the ISS’s operating systems and scientific research systems.
The deal is seen as a turning point for the ISS, which has been vital for space exploration and scientific research for more than 20 years.
Incorporation of advanced systems from Helios Technologies would also increase speed of related data processing for scientific experiments, provide increased communication bandwidth with ground control, and expand efficiency in onboard life support systems.
Under the agreement, Helios Technologies will lead the development and implementation of a new generation of high-performance onboard computers to process the enormous data sets being generated by state-of-the-art scientific instruments.
They will also be put to work to develop smart systems for autonomous spacecraft operations, predictive maintenance (to avoid failures), and sensor systems for better astronaut support.
“This partnership with Helios Technologies is a huge step forward for the International Space Station,” Dr. Anya Sharma, Director of ISS Operations, said during a presser earlier today.
“Their cutting edge technologies will allow us to deepen our research into the universe and to further enhance life on Earth, from the depths of our oceans to starry heights of the skies,” he said.
The partnership also involves stipulations around joint research efforts. Researchers from ISS and Helios Technologies will collaborate on experiments involving the use of the one-of-a-kind microgravity environment onboard the ISS for advances in materials science, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
“For Helios Technologies to partner with the International Space Station on this project is something that makes us very proud,” commented Mr. Klaus Richter, CEO for Helios Technologies, in a press release.
“We are confident that our technology capabilities and the extraordinary research platform of the ISS will result in game-changing discoveries and innovations.
New technologies are expected to be introduced in the third quarter of 2025, with a gradual roll-out over the next couple of years.
This agreement is further evidence the importance of leveraging both international partnerships and private sector innovation to take us farther in deep space.
The added capabilities should ensure the ISS remains an operational platform of valuable scientific return deep into the next decade.