Episode 2 | Naeem Altaf | IBM Space Tech CTO, D.E.

In the Open with Luke and Joe

In this episode, we discuss the latest happenings in the space industry, as well as, what’s on the horizon. Topics range from recent Mars missions, sequencing DNA in outer space, the autonomous Mayflower 2 boat project, and the development of open-source software-defined satellites.

Key Takeaways:

• [00:06 - 00:28] Intro to the episode
• [01:48 - 03:42] IBM's role in NASA's space exploration efforts
• [03:59 - 06:29] Intro to Naeem, and edge
• [06:40 - 09:53] What's being done now, working with NASA, and how edge will be used in the future
• [10:22 - 11:35] Can the everyday average developer get involved with space computing?
• [11:57 - 15:36] Naeem discusses what orbits earth, speeds at which they travel, etc.
• [17:49 - 19:07] The multiple orbit layers, and the challenges that come with it
• [19:28 - 22:58] The CubeSat Project
• [25:05 - 28:44] What's happening with Mars, and why is it important?
• [29:07 - 31:40] QUESTION: "Are there any concerns about a critical mass of orbiting devices and crafts that somehow impacts weather systems, global temperatures, reflected sunlight? How can we help monitor that?"
• [36:01 - 37:51] Will we be going to the Moon and Mars more?
• [38:09 - 41:29] The Mayflower Project
• [43:25 - 44:52] QUESTION: "What's the role of Kubernetes in this from edge to satellite?"
• [45:34 - 47:24] Final thoughts from Naeem

Resources:

Video: IBM partners with NASA to develop Edge Computing in space aboard the ISS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hm6mN0sbmC4

Mayflower Autonomous Ship: https://www.ibm.com/industries/federal/autonomous-ship

Edge Computing in Space: https://www.ibm.com/cloud/blog/ibm-develops-a-unique-custom-edge-computing-solution-in-space

The Apollo Missions: https://www.ibm.com/ibm/history/ibm100/us/en/icons/apollo/breakthroughs/

Space Flight Chronology: https://www.ibm.com/ibm/history/exhibits/space/space_chronology.html