ANGOKA’s Drone Summit returns for a second year

Belfast based cybersecurity firm ANGOKA is to host its second UK & Ireland Drone Summit sponsored by KPMG and the Royal Air Force.

The summit will bring speakers from across Europe to discuss the evolution and revolution of drones, and the important role that cybersecurity plays in the accuracy and security of the communications between devices.

The conference, which will take place on November 20th in KPMG’s Belfast offices, will include a live security demonstration which will see a live hacking attempt to illustrate this landscape and how ANGOKA can mitigate for all eventualities using its secure communication technology.

Between keynote speakers and panel discussions, the summit will explore the cyber challenge for UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), technology drivers behind UAV advancements and the regulatory and social challenge for UAVs.

Highlighting the importance of events like this Shadi Razak, Chief Technology Officer at ANGOKA says: “We’re delighted that the UK & Ireland Drone Summit is returning. With the success of last year’s event, we saw the benefits to the industry in bringing great minds together to discuss how we can transform the regulatory, governance, security and safety challenges to opportunities that harness the good and mitigate the negative impact and foreseen risk of UAV technologies.

“Drones are allowing us to achieve more than ever before and continue to provide opportunities to businesses and the economy. Whilst use of drones is important, the risks of cyber is real, both commercially and physically.

“The conference is bringing together thought leaders and innovators to discuss the benefits, and also the downfalls, that come with UAVs, and how as an industry we can work together to ensure both physical and digital security.”

ANGOKA has a proven record of creating impenetrable security systems to protect driverless road vehicles and UAVs. The Belfast firm has partnered with a number of projects in the UK Research and Innovation’s Future Flight Challenge including Skyway in which air traffic corridors in the south of England have been designated for drones and unmanned aircraft. ANGOKA also supplies the hacker-proof security for automated, teleoperated and unmanned aircraft using these corridors.

Speakers participating in ANGOKA’s UK & Ireland Drone Summit include KPMG’s Chair, Global AAM and Future of Flight Community Chris Brown, Royal Airforce’s Air and Space Welfare Centre Commandant Air Commadore Blythe Crawford CBE, Innovate UK’s Future Flight Challenge Innovation Lead Vicki Murdie,  BT Group’s Director of Drones Dave Pankhurst, GSMA’s Senior Technical Director, Smart Mobility Lead Barbara Pareglio, and Civil Aviation Authority’s Emerging Policy Specialist for Future Safety and Innovation, Ed Fitzpatrick.

For more details and to register for the conference visit here.

Data Edge partners with HUBER+SUHNER to access unique optical solutions

Network optimisation company Data Edge today announces a new partnership with HUBER+SUHNER. The collaboration is expected to generate half a million euro (€500,000) for Data Edge in additional revenue over the next two years.

Headquartered in Switzerland, HUBER+SUHNER manufactures electrical and optical connectivity solutions, serving a variety of industries. A global leader, its solutions and products include optical switches, global navigation satellite system (GNSS) distribution and antennas, as well as cabling and connectors. This new partnership with Bray-based Data Edge is the company’s first in Ireland.

The collaboration enables Data Edge to enhance its data centre offering by bringing several new innovative solutions to the market in Ireland and making use of the unique GNNS distribution equipment and ‘power over fibre’ antenna solutions from HUBER+SUHNER.

It will also benefit Data Edge’s existing customers, enabling access to the latest generation optical distribution frames and lab switching which improves the speed of connections between communication facilities.

Data Edge and HUBER+SUHNER expect to generate new business through this partnership. In fact, they are already working together on a significant project with a leading multinational technology company.

Commenting on the partnership, Paul Phelan, CEO, Data Edge said: “Partnering with HUBER+SUHNER has been a goal for us for quite some time, as its suite of products are a perfect fit for our customers’ evolving needs. Due to our experience and position in the Irish market, we are a natural fit for this partnership and are looking forward to leveraging it fully to grow our business, particularly our data centre offering.”

Mark Alexander, Sales Manager, Data Centre at HUBER+SUHNER said: “When considering a partnership in the Irish market, Data Edge stood out to us as an experienced potential collaborator, having done excellent work here for a number of years on high-level projects such as the National Timing Protocol Timesaver and the recently launched National Timing Grid. Data Edge’s extensive work with optical switching installations and lab automation, as well as its standing in the telecommunications synchronisation sector, made them a natural choice to become our first partner in Ireland.”

Data Edge will be showcasing equipment from HUBER+SUHNER on its stand (#127) at the Data Centres Ireland show at the RDS convention centre this month, 22-23 November.

Artificial Intelligence: Irish organisations urged to become ‘more familiar’ with future EU legislation

The National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) is urging organisations, especially businesses, to become more familiar with upcoming EU legislation around artificial intelligence (AI). As Ireland’s official standards body, it is also encouraging organisations across the country to get more involved in the sector by helping develop future international AI standards.

To support Irish enterprises, NSAI is teaming up with Danish Standards and European Committees for Standardisation (CEN and CENELEC*) to jointly host a webinar on Friday, November 24th called: ‘Future EU legislation on AI and the important role standards play.’ The event is an initiative under the new European Commission High Level Forum on Standardisation and will feature speakers from the European Commission, national standardisation bodies and companies such as Ireland’s SoapBox Labs.

The use of AI in the EU will be regulated by the upcoming AI Act, which has been described as the world’s first comprehensive AI law. Becoming more familiar with that piece of legislation is a recommended step for all Irish organisations, says Marita Kinsella, Head of Innovation Policy and Business Development with NSAI. She said: “To successfully implement the AI Act, it’s critical for organisations and businesses in Ireland to know what practical implications the AI Act will have for them and also importantly, how they can help influence the development of future standards around AI.”

Earlier this yearthe Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Neale Richmond T.D. and Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary T.D., launched the AI Standards and Assurance Roadmap with the NSAI.

The roadmap is a key deliverable under Ireland’s National AI Strategy and is a significant step in ensuring that Ireland is at the forefront of change. Its aim is to support Irish enterprises and organisations in embracing AI safely and ethically, through utilising AI standards that are published and in development.

“All types of organisations, such as state agencies, businesses, non-governmental organisations and academic bodies, are encouraged to contribute to the development of future international AI standards,” said Kinsella.

She added: “In Ireland, for example, organisations can engage with our national committee or can have their say on draft standards through the ‘Your Standards, Your Say’ portal on the NSAI website.”

The webinar on November 24th runs from 10am to 12pm, Central European Time, and bookings can be made through the Danish Standards’ website at https://www.ds.dk/da/ydelser/kurser/future-eu-legislation-on-ai-and-the-important-role-standards-play

Black Friday Promotion: €100 off PlayStation 5

From today, Sony PlayStation have announced until the 30th November, players will be able to purchase PlayStation 5 consoles for €449.99at participating retailers.  Further information on this offer can be found at PlayStation Black Friday 2023

As part of Black Friday, there will also be great deals on PlayStation peripherals and software across participating retailers. Those offers include but are not limited to:

Hardware:

  • DualSense (RRP €49.99)
  • PULSE 3D Wireless Headset (RRP €89.99)
  • DualSense Charging Station (RRP €24.99)
  • Media Remote (RRP €24.99)
  • HD Camera for PS5 Consoles (RRP €54.99)

Software:

  • God of War Ragnarök PS5 (RRP €49.99)​
  • Marvel’s Spider-Man Miles Morales PS5 (RRP €29.99)​
  • GT7 PS5 (RRP €39.99)

2023 has been a fantastic year for PS5 so far, with plenty of games to keep players entertained, including recently released blockbuster titles like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and EA SPORTS FC 24, as well as virtual reality experiences like Horizon Call of the Mountain and Resident Evil Village on PlayStation VR2. We’ve continued to deliver incredible gaming experiences to our growing PS5 community, including PlayStation’s game subscription service, PlayStation Plus, which offers benefits such as the Game and Classics Catalogue with hundreds of games to choose from.

*Offer ends 30/11. Subject to availability. Manufacturer’s recommended promotional price. Actual retailer price may vary. Saving against previous recommended retailer price of €549.99.

Tech Review – FNTCASE cases for the Google Pixel 8 Pro

As you all know the Google Pixel 8 Pro is one of my daily drivers and FNTCASE has sent some cases over to check out for the device and if you want to check out other reviews from the company they have plenty of cases for other brands, recently we checked out some cases for the iPhone 15 pro.

Again the company has sent two cases that will suit two different people one that is clear and one that is dual layered and both offers great protection all round. Again both cases do a great job and feel good in the hand offering extra grip all ports are accessible and you can wirelessly charge the Pixel 8 Pro with one having Magnetic full drop protection.

Check out the video review below for more where we take a deep dive into both cases.

Pixel 8 Pro Dual Layer Shockproof Protective Phone Cover with Anti Slip Textured Back Cell Case

  • Non-Slip Textured Design: Our innovative Google Pixel 8 Pro case features a non-slip textured design, providing a confident grip and preventing accidental drops. Stay worry-free while experiencing the stylish and secure feel of your phone.
  • Double-Layer Heavy-Duty Protection: Take your phone’s protection to the next level with our dual-layer heavy-duty case. Built to military-grade standards, it offers unparalleled defense against drops, bumps, and scratches, ensuring your Pixel 8 Pro remains safe in all situations.
  • HD Tempered Film: Immerse yourself in the brilliance of your Pixel 8 Pro’s display with our HD tempered film. Enjoy enhanced clarity and touch sensitivity while keeping your screen pristine and free from unsightly scratches and smudges.
  • Higher Than Camera Protection: Capture picture-perfect moments without worry, thanks to our case’s elevated camera protection. The lens is shielded from potential damage, allowing you to focus on taking stunning photos and videos with your Google Pixel 8 Pro.

BUY

Pixel 8 Pro Phone Case: Magnetic Full Drop Proof Protection Cell Phone Case

  • Only compatible with Pixel 8 Pro
  • With a built-in magnetic loop to strengthen the magnetic connection, this Pixel 8 Pro case is magnetically compatible with all Qi-certified magnetic chargers, magnetic wallets, and car mounts. No matter how shaken it is, your magnetic phone case will not fall off
  • It features a touch-sensitive built-in screen protector that protects your screen from scratches, cracks, and impacts.
  • The Pixel 8 Pro case is made of high-quality hard PC, flexible TPU and built-in screen protector.
  • The slim and lightweight design ensures better grip and comfortable holding.

Check out the full range of cases on offer here.

Video Review

Uniphore and Workair Partner to Bring Enterprise AI to Ireland

Uniphore, one of the world’s largest AI-native companies, announced a strategic partnership with Workair, the largest cloud communications specialist in Ireland, to bring enterprise AI to Ireland, with a priority placed on Ireland’s world-class contact centres.

With deep expertise and a track record of success working with enterprise-scale companies, public sector and global contact centres,

Workair will leverage Uniphore’s X Platform and their industry-leading AI solutions to help clients select, deploy and support customer-centric solutions that best meet their specific needs. The Uniphore X Platform infuses multiple AI technologies into all areas of the enterprise that impact the customer, such as conversational AI, generative AI, knowledge AI and emotion AI.

As an established leader, Workair will leverage its expertise and the access it now has to industry-leading technology with Uniphore to ensure its customers will be able to better handle customer-centric tasks such as sales, frontline support and compliance management across contact centres.

“Ireland has become a vibrant tech hub for innovation,” said Umesh Sachdev, CEO at Uniphore. “Workair has been a major force driving innovation not only for Irish enterprises, but for global brands as well. We’re thrilled to partner with Workair to deliver best-in-class customer experiences throughout Ireland and beyond. This collaboration is a critical step in expanding Uniphore’s global footprint and ensuring our leading enterprise AI platform is recognized on the world’s stage.”

To kick off this partnership, Uniphore and Workair gathered a select group of senior executives  from  Ireland’s top businesses at an event at The Fire Steakhouse in Dublin on Nov 16th  2023 to network and discuss the future of AI.  The event was also attended by World Rugby Hall of Famer, Brian O’Driscoll.

“Workair has always been at the forefront of delivering easy-to-use, integrated and cost-effective customer communications to Ireland’s contact centres,” said Stephen Mackarel, Managing Director of Workair. “We are proud to partner with Uniphore and provide Ireland’s call centres with enterprise AI capabilities that will empower agents to better address customer concerns, lower call times and improve the overall customer experience.”

“AI is clearly the next major force for business transformation and there is a huge opportunity for all customer-facing functions to leverage it for improved customer and employee/advisor experiences,” said Dorothy O’Byrne, Managing Director at Contact Centre Management Association in Ireland.  “CCMA is working with members to help identify and develop the opportunities that AI brings. We congratulate Workair, sponsors of the CCMA, on this partnership with Uniphore.”

Uniphore’s enterprise-class, AI-native platform makes it easy for businesses to transform every part of the enterprise that impacts the customer. With the addition of the Workair partnership, Uniphore’s platform is now available in over 20 countries.

Edifier 30% off Black Friday deals not to be missed

Edifier will be running a 30% discount off some of their most popular models – the S3 included. The STAX S3 offer will be a reduction £379 to £265.30. https://www.amazon.it/dp/B0B4JWZYSS

This offer will run from November 17th until Monday 27th November. If you need to get a closer look check our reviews on site for all the reviews which we went hands on with from the brand that gives you great audio at even better prices now.

Other deals include 27% off the recently launched NeoBuds Pro 2 – https://www.amazon.it/dp/B0CFY1978H from £149.99 to 109.99

WH950NB from £179.99 to £149.99 a discount of 30% – https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BM92D2D1/

WH500 from £39..99 to £23.99 – 40 % off –  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BM92D2D1/

W320TN 30% off from £99.99 to £69.99 – https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C7Q43WRR

W240TN 35% off £69.99 to £45.95- https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B2PGF9VD/?th=1

Artificial Intelligence In Space

Even before the widespread use of computer technology, science fiction offered readers a wide variety of applications of artificial intelligence and robots in the context of space exploration. The super intelligent computer HAL 9000 in 2001: A Space Odyssey, C3PO and R2D2 in Star Wars, tricorders, borgs, holograms and smart computers in Star Trek: all these works clearly demonstrate that space and AI are two halves of the same whole.

Since the beginning of human exploration of extraterrestrial space, this fantastic union is finally becoming a reality: in our article we will tell you about more specific examples of the use of artificial intelligence in the space industry and how software development companies participate in it.

AI In the Production of Satellites and Spacecraft

Traditional design methods require a huge amount of computation and many iterations to achieve the optimal solution. Using AI, the process of creating structures can be automated, taking into account various factors such as mass, strength and thermal loads. Machine learning algorithms can optimize a design and make predictions about its performance early in the design phase.

Another important area where AI is finding application in satellite manufacturing is in system control and testing. To ensure the reliability of satellites, numerous tests must be carried out at various stages of production. The use of AI allows you to automate the process of quality control and defect detection. Machine learning algorithms can analyze sensor data and determine whether the satellite’s parameters meet specified requirements. If inconsistencies are detected, AI can take action to correct them or reject components that are not reliable enough.

Artificial intelligence is also used in the production of spacecraft. One of the tasks of AI is to model and optimize system parameters such as flight modes and engine settings to achieve the best efficiency and durability. Thanks to machine learning, AI can analyze huge amounts of data about engine performance and external factors that can affect flight, and suggest optimal settings.

AI-Enhanced Space Photography

AI allows you to process large volumes of data received from satellites and telescopes and identify objects and phenomena that interest us. This is especially useful when observing distant galaxies or small asteroids that might be missed by the human eye.

Secondly, artificial intelligence can help improve the quality and resolution of space images. It uses image processing algorithms to eliminate noise, increase contrast and sharpness, and increase image resolution and detail. This allows for clearer and more detailed space images, which helps scientists explore outer space with greater precision.

In addition, artificial intelligence is used to analyze and classify acquired space images. It can automatically recognize and identify various objects and phenomena such as planets, stars, galaxies, as well as dangerous space objects such as asteroids and comets. This helps scientists discover new objects and study their properties and characteristics. The use of artificial intelligence directly on board the satellite eliminates the need for specialists for additional communication between ground and space stations.

Artificial intelligence systems play an equally important role in the operation of probes exploring deep space. Specialized algorithms process huge amounts of data, studying the characteristics of alien worlds. The AI compares them with the programmed indicators of a potentially habitable space object to determine the probability of habitability of the next exoplanet.

System Status Monitoring

Satellite Parameter Tracking

The first aspect of monitoring artificial satellites involves tracking and analyzing various parameters to assess their performance and health. AI-powered systems can continuously collect and process data on crucial indicators, including power consumption, temperature, orientation, and communication signal strength. By establishing baseline values and continuously comparing them to real-time data, the AI system can identify any deviations or anomalies, enabling proactive measures to be taken.

Using Machine Learning algorithms, anomalies can be detected by patterns that emerge from large-scale data analysis. For example, if a sudden increase or decrease in power consumption is detected beyond normal variations, the AI system can send alerts to the relevant personnel, indicating the possibility of a malfunction or potential failure. Furthermore, with the help of historical data, these AI systems can predict possible future issues, assisting in developing preventive strategies and optimizing maintenance schedules.

Probability Calculation

In addition to tracking parameters, AI can be employed to calculate probabilities of failure or future anomalies based on historical data and real-time monitoring. By analyzing massive datasets, AI algorithms can identify correlations and patterns that may signify an increased likelihood of malfunction. These algorithms can leverage statistical modeling techniques, such as Bayesian inference, to estimate the probability of specific events occurring. For example, SpaceX has equipped its satellites with systems of sensors and mechanisms that can track the position of the device and adjust it to avoid collisions with other objects.

For instance, a machine learning model can analyze historical data on satellite failures and identify common patterns or trends associated with these occurrences. By extrapolating this information and integrating it with current data, the AI system can provide estimates of probabilities for potential failures. Such calculations can assist engineers and operators in prioritizing maintenance tasks, deploying resources effectively, and ensuring the overall stability of the satellite network.

Space Simulations with AI

Autonomous Spacecraft and Probes

AI has played a vital role in autonomous spacecraft and probes, enabling them to navigate through space and conduct complex missions without continuous human intervention. For instance, NASA’s Mars rovers, Spirit, Opportunity, and Curiosity, utilize AI to analyze and interpret data, decide about soil samples, rock formations, and potential signs of life autonomously.

Machine Learning in Astrophysics

Space simulations combined with machine learning algorithms have proven pivotal in astrophysics research. Machine learning techniques excel at processing enormous amounts of data, helping scientists to discover new celestial objects and better understand the functioning of the universe. For instance, the Dark Energy Survey employs AI algorithms to analyze telescope images, unraveling dark matter and dark energy. Machine learning also aids in classifying astronomical objects and detecting gravitational waves, expanding our understanding of the universe’s evolution.

Virtual Reality Simulations

AI-driven virtual reality (VR) simulations provide immersive experiences that enable both professionals and the general public to explore outer space. With advancements in AI and VR, individuals can now embark on virtual missions, exploring distant galaxies, navigating through asteroid belts, and landing on the surfaces of faraway celestial bodies. These simulations offer unparalleled educational value.

Astronaut Training and Robotics

AI-powered simulations have greatly improved astronaut training, replicating space environments and conditions. Intelligent systems can simulate emergencies, spatial orientation, and critical decision-making scenarios, enhancing the capabilities of astronauts to handle challenging situations they may encounter during real missions. Furthermore, robotic companions assist astronauts during space expeditions, making exploration less reliant on direct human intervention.

Natural Language Processing (NLP) for Data Analysis

Space exploration generates an enormous amount of data, including scientific papers, technical reports, and experimental findings. NLP techniques have been employed to extract valuable insights, analyze trends, and generate summaries from this massive volume of information. AI-powered NLP tools aid scientists and engineers in data analysis, resource allocation, and experimental design.

Software Development Companies and AI in Fueling Space Exploration

Modern space missions heavily rely on sophisticated software systems to control and monitor various components of spacecraft, satellites, and ground stations. Software development companies play a vital role in designing, creating, and maintaining these complex software frameworks tailored to meet the specific requirements of space engineers.

Among the most influential contributors to today’s space exploration endeavor are software development companies and artificial intelligence. Software development companies integrate AI algorithms into their applications to process and analyze vast quantities of data obtained from space exploration missions. AI algorithms can extract relevant insights from the data collected, allowing scientists to derive conclusions and facilitate further exploration. By automating data processing through AI, software developers facilitate a more efficient and error-free analysis process, significantly accelerating scientific discoveries.

Machine Learning and Predictive Analytics

One of the most significant advantages of AI in space exploration is its ability to learn from past experiences and predict future outcomes. Machine learning algorithms are employed by software developers to train AI systems on vast datasets collected from previous missions, thereby enabling these systems to identify patterns, detect anomalies, and make predictions. This predictive capability assists mission planners and engineers in optimizing mission trajectories, accurately estimating fuel requirements, and avoiding potential hazards.

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Fault Detection and Recovery

Space missions operate in extreme and unforgiving environments, where system failures can lead to catastrophic consequences. Software companies work closely with space engineers to develop fault detection algorithms, redundancy systems, and autonomous recovery mechanisms. These software systems help to detect anomalies, diagnose problems, and facilitate prompt corrective actions, ensuring mission success and crew safety.

Onboard Software Systems

Embedded software systems are crucial in the functioning of spacecraft and satellites. Software developers collaborate with space engineers to design onboard software systems responsible for executing critical tasks such as navigation, communication, instrument control, and environmental monitoring. These software systems operate in real-time, often requiring fault-tolerant and deterministic behavior.

Continuous Software Updates

As space missions can have long durations, software companies support engineers by providing continuous software updates and bug fixes. This helps to address any unforeseen issues, incorporate new requirements, and enhance the overall performance and reliability of the software systems deployed onboard and on the ground.

Software Development for Space in the UK

The UK’s involvement in space exploration began as early as the 1950s with the establishment of the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) Rocket Propulsion Department. Over the years, the UK’s space sector has experienced substantial growth, both in terms of research and industry participation. The UK Space Agency, established in 2010, has been instrumental in fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government agencies to drive space-related initiatives.

One software company in the UK example is the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Harwell Space Cluster, located in Oxfordshire. This cluster brings together academic institutions, government agencies, and industry partners to collaborate on space-related projects. Within this cluster, software development plays a pivotal role in designing and operating satellite systems, analyzing data collected from space missions, and developing simulations for training astronauts.

Another notable player in the UK’s space software industry is Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL). SSTL specializes in the design, build, and operation of small satellites. Their expertise lies in developing software that ensures the functionality, reliability, and safety of satellite systems. These software solutions are fundamental in enabling various mission goals, including Earth observation, climate monitoring, and telecommunications.

Moreover, academic institutions in the UK also contribute significantly to space software development. Universities such as the University of Surrey and the University of Oxford have research centers and programs dedicated to space systems engineering and software development. These centers focus on creating innovative software solutions for space applications, particularly in areas such as autonomous spacecraft, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

Conclusion

The collaboration between software development companies, AI and space engineers is a symbiotic relationship that pushes the boundaries of human exploration and scientific discovery. The contribution of software developers to the field of space engineering is instrumental in enabling successful missions, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring the safety of astronauts and space assets. As technology continues to advance, this collaborative relationship will further evolve, opening up new possibilities for space exploration.