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Tyto Athene | Data to Dominance

Artificial intelligence and machine learning could aid in making decisions on space missions

As the volume of data generated by space missions continues to grow exponentially, the need for intelligent automation becomes increasingly urgent. In a recent episode of Federal News Network’s Space Hour Podcast, Victoria Da Poian, Lead Data Scientist at Tyto Athene, joined host Eric White to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are reshaping the future of space exploration. 

Victoria, who works closely with NASA as part of Tyto Athene’s mission enablement portfolio, discussed how AI and ML are being used to make spacecraft more autonomous, data collection more strategic, and science operations more adaptive. 

“We are trying to enhance and enable different space missions through flight and ground software tools, through data processing, and also through… the development of AI and some machine learning tools to make our instruments a little bit smarter for the missions we send them to,” Victoria explained. “Because we’re going further away in our solar system.” 

Prioritizing Data in Deep Space 

In traditional mission architecture, data is gathered, transmitted to Earth, and analyzed post-collection. However, limited bandwidth and the sheer scale of information present new challenges. As Victoria noted, “One of the main things that we want [long term] is… onboard machine learning algorithms to help the mission, to help the spacecraft, to handle the data that is being collected, to see what is the most relevant, to see what is the most interesting information, and prioritize the data we send back.” 

With AI-driven prioritization, spacecraft can intelligently assess what data matters most, which is critical in environments where transmission windows are narrow and scientific opportunity is fleeting. 

Integrating Operational and Scientific Intelligence 

The conversation highlighted two core use cases: optimizing operational functions (like fuel and power usage) and supporting scientific discovery in real time. Tyto Athene’s data scientists work in direct collaboration with NASA scientists to tailor ML algorithms to specific scientific goals while minimizing human bias. 

Looking Ahead: Collaboration and Trust 

As AI capabilities mature, Victoria emphasized that success in space won’t just come from smarter algorithms; it will require trust between human operators and machine intelligence. 

“One of the main challenges… is developing the trust in these AI-driven strategies,” she said. “Machine learning is often seen as black boxes. The beauty of our team within Tyto… is to closely work with [NASA scientists] from day one to develop this trust in the solutions we’re offering.” 

Listen to the full episode on The Federal News Network

Post Quantum Encryption: Defense Against the Dark Arts

Listen to the Federal Tech Podcast, hosted by John Gilroy, with guests Peter O’Donoghue and Richard Wheeler from Tyto Athene, discussing NIST, Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), and the future of federal agency security.

As quantum computing rapidly advances, the threat posed by a fault-tolerant quantum computer to existing cryptographic algorithms means that agencies need to start preparing today for tomorrow’s challenges. As a result, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has released the first three finalized post-quantum encryption standards, designed to safeguard data against emerging quantum threats. With these standards—FIPS 203, 204, and 205—organizations can test their ability to secure encryption and digital signatures against quantum-powered attack.

By the time these fault-tolerant quantum computers are operational, it will be too late to retrofit adequate security measures. Instead, to mitigate operational and security risks, organizations should adhere to a phased approach with the resources at hand: discovery, testing, validation, piloting, and deployment.  Upgrading to achieve interoperability with legacy systems will necessitate a staged approach, aligned with budget cycles and the security level of the data involved.

To address the future of post-quantum resilience, consider partnering with a federal systems integrator like Tyto Athene to establish a Crypto Center of Excellence that manages cryptographic algorithms across the enterprise. Agencies must adopt a proactive approach, building an agile system with the ability to shift as future guidance and quantum-resistant algorithms evolve.

Listen to the podcast to hear Peter O’Donoghue and Richard Wheeler answer essential questions about PQC, what it means for the future of cybersecurity, and how Tyto Athene can help your organization prepare.

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Dennis Kelly’s Blueprint for Building Billion-Dollar GovCons

HERNDON, Va., August 23, 2024 – Tyto Athene’s CEO, Dennis Kelly, has been featured in Washington Technology’s latest podcast episode, “Dennis Kelly’s Blueprint for Building a Billion-Dollar GovCon.”

In this insightful discussion, Dennis dives into the strategies and perspectives driving Tyto Athene, LLC‘s success and growth as a Federal Systems Integrator. His leadership and innovative approach are truly shaping the future of our industry.

We’re excited about what’s ahead for Team Tyto! Check out the full episode here: LISTEN NOW