Overview

What is Data Science Space Week?

A week-long event centered around the unique opportunities for data science in space exploration, engineering, education, and research. The event will introduce students to the role of data science in addressing the challenges found in the massive amounts of astronomy data and the unique environment of space. Space is so vast and our exploration of that vastness generates stellar amounts of data—from satellite observations to telemetry data. Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning (DS/AI/ML) play a central role in analyzing this information to extract meaningful insights, identify patterns, and make informed decisions.

Why Space?

As a Space-Grant University, Texas A&M has a rich history in fundamental and applied research, along with workforce development in space exploration. The landscape of space travel, exploration, and related industries is undergoing significant transformation due to advancements in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning. More data science literacy is needed, with an increasing focus on data-driven approaches influencing decision-making processes. At Texas A&M, our faculty leads in computing, earth and planetary sciences, human space-flight research, and planetary surface engineering and construction. None of this would be possible without data science. 

What activities can I participate in?

• Seminars: Various presentations and panel discussions with leading Texas A&M researchers, NASA scientists, and visiting scholars. Seminars will cover how data science approaches like machine learning, artificial intelligence, and statistical analysis extract valuable insights from big datasets. 
• Data Science Student Showcase: Senior undergraduate and graduate students from Data Science and related programs across Texas A&M present posters on their research. 
• Workshops: Students and researchers learn to utilize Texas A&M computing resources, how to explore astronomical datasets, and how to collaborate with other researchers on space-related projects. 

---

Space Week Events

We are adding more events all the time, check back soon to find out what else is happening during Space Week!

---

Space Week Themes

AI/Autonomy/Automation in Deep Space — The vast distance present in space makes remote operation of equipment, craft, and machines incredibly difficult, even when communicating at the speed of light. DS/AI/ML can support onboard decision-making, manage communication lag, enable edge computing, and more. NASA Software Developers Take Autonomy from Simulation to Flight

Astronomers Using DS/AI/ML Tools — Even with constant advancements in telescopes and sensors, we have only explored a small percentage of the known universe. DS/AI/ML helps astronomers comb through vast amounts of data, detect and classify astronomical objects, fill gaps in data, and optimize observation strategies to maximize our exploration of the stars. NASA-enabled AI Predictions May Give Time to Prepare for Solar Storms

AI Creating Space Materials, Tools, and Crafts — Solving the challenges of space exploration will require materials and technology yet to be invented. DS/AI/ML can help with the research and development of our space crafts. NASA Turns to AI to Design Mission Hardware

Tracking Space Junk — Sometimes things in space, especially in Earth’s increasingly crowded orbit, aren’t where we want them to be.  DS/AI/ML can help mitigate the danger of old satellites, asteroids, rocket parts, and other space debris through tracking and predictive modeling. Detect, Track, and Remediate: The Challenge of Small Space Debris

Machine Learning in Astronaut Health — The more humans travel in space, the more we need to monitor and understand their health. DS/AI/ML can help keep astronauts healthy and in space by monitoring sensors, tracking changes, and predicting potential issues. AI Applications for Astronaut Health

From Earth to Mars, Observations in Biological and Physical Sciences  — Scientists study how living organisms adapt to extreme conditions beyond our home planet. From laboratory experiments on Earth to space missions, they explore the effects of microgravity, radiation, and other space-related factors on biological systems. What role does DS/AI/ML play in the exploration of our closest Planetary neighbor? Two Rovers to Roll on Mars Again: Curiosity and Mars 2020

The Internet (of Things) in Space — How do astronauts take selfies in space? The need for communication and management of data in orbit or in deep space will increase with our growing exploration. DS/AI/ML can help transition our terrestrial data transmission mechanism to outer space, including improving data reliability, storage, and networking. Internet of Things in Space: A Review of Opportunities and Challenges from Satellite-Aided Computing to Digitally-Enhanced Space Living

Organizers

A special thank you to the team who helped organize these events:

• Julie A. Howe; Associate Department Head for Undergraduate Programs and Professor, Department of Soil and Crop Science
• Manoranjan Majji; Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering
• Jian Tao; Assistant Director for Project Development, TAMIDS; Assistant Professor, School of Performance, Visualization & Fine Arts