Emerging Technologies and Space

The fourth industrial revolution and breakthroughs in emerging technologies, namely in Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Computing, have the potential to change the nature of space activities, ranging from space exploration, space tourism, to space activities. The practical applications of AI are manifold and include the automation of repetitive tasks in the manufacturing of satellites and spacecrafts, image recognition of satellite data and provision of assistance to astronauts in task and behaviour management. While emerging technologies offer new opportunities, the side effects of these promises rest on the negative issues associated. Ensuring the accessibility of space datasets, while also ensuring the identification and mitigation of cybersecurity implications of AI-powered devices and quantum computers, remains essential. These are some of the few challenges that scientists, design engineers, and decision-makers will have to face in both the short and long-term. Based on the above, this paper will discuss the possibilities presented by emerging technologies, their associated risks in the space sector, and finally the potential mitigating measures addressing the degree of coordination that is necessary to ensure that space activities remain peaceful and beneficial for all humankind.