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Onboard AI-Based Object Detector Utilizing a Next-Generation Space-Grade MPU "AIRIS" Successfully Detects Ships in Orbit
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・ Satellite-mounted AI detects ships from images captured during an in-orbit demonstration aboard the Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4 mission
・ Ongoing research aims to establish a cycle of AI performance improvement through ground-based retraining and remote updating of the AI from the ground
Results of Image Capture and Ship Detection by AIRIS
Tokyo, May 11, 2026 - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has successfully conducted an in-orbit demonstration using its onboard AI-based object detector "AIRIS" (Note1), which leverages a next-generation space-grade MPU(Note2). AIRIS, composed of an AI-equipped data processor and an earth observation camera developed by the Tokyo University of Science, detected ships from maritime imagery.
AIRIS operates AI on board the satellite using the next-generation space-grade MPU "SOISOC4," developed jointly by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and MHI, to detect objects from satellite images. As part of JAXA's "Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration Program," AIRIS was launched aboard the small demonstration satellite "RAISE-4" (Note3) on December 14, 2025, and has since been advancing its technology demonstration in orbit. Going forward, MHI plans to establish a continuous cycle to improve AI performance by retraining the AI on the ground using images of ships obtained during operations and updating the AI onboard AIRIS in orbit.
In addition to the AI operation demonstration, the in-orbit demonstration of AIRIS aboard "Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4" also includes an in-orbit demonstration of the SOISOC4 MPU. Through the development of these devices, MHI will continue striving for technological innovation in cutting-edge space equipment development and contribute to the advancement of Japan's space development and utilization.
Data Processor (Left) and
Earth Observation Camera (Right) Comprising AIRIS
The Cycle to be Demonstrated by AIRIS
AIRIS Theme Mark
- 1Abbreviation of "Artificial Intelligence Retraining In Space". For more information on AIRIS, please visit:
MHI Press Release
https://www.mhi.com/news/240306.html - 2 Abbreviation of "Micro Processing Unit". See below for details of the next-generation space MPU.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Technical Review (Development of the Next-generation Space-Grade Microprocessor)
https://www.mhi.co.jp/technology/review/pdf/e584/e584070.pdf - 3 Abbreviation of "RApid Innovative payload demonstration SatellitE-4".
RAISE-4 is one of the satellites launched aboard JAXA's Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4 mission.
For more information on RAISE-4, please visit:
JAXA Press Release (in Japanese)
https://www.jaxa.jp/press/2025/12/20251214-1_j.html
JAXA website (Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4 mission) (in Japanese)
https://www.kenkai.jaxa.jp/kakushin/kakushin04.html
About MHI Group
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.