#63: Edge Computing for Earth Observation - Sean Mitchell, Ubotica

Today, I am speaking with Sean Mitchell, Chairman & Chief Commercial Officer at Ubotica, an AI-driven edge computing startup from Ireland.

Edge computing is a technology that has started to create a lot of buzz in the Earth observation sector. Enabling some processing of satellite data on-board the satellite before downlinking seems efficient, but the execution may not be straightforward. Ubotica is a startup focused on solving that with their edge computing platform solution, which they have already flown in space.

In this episode, Sean and I talk about what edge computing means, what it brings to the table, what is possible today, applications for Earth observation, Ubotica's technology and journey and more. 

• Ubotica website
• Ubotica's latest edge computing innovation
• ESA Phi-Sat

[Thanks to Ubotica for sponsoring this episode]

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01:08: Intro

02:52: Overview of Ubotica

05:24: What is edge computing and where are we today in terms of its capabilities?

13:00: Applications of edge computing

19:01: Ubotica's offering and go-to-market strategy

25:52: ESA's Phi-Sat mission

33:55: Are larger satellites more suited for edge computing?

37:28: Applications of edge computing beyond EO - in space exploration and space situational awareness

42:07: Limiting factors for adoption of edge computing and how not to oversell

48:32: Entry of big tech and their role in edge computing for EO

49:49: Wrap-up