NASA develops three optical navigation technologies for planetary exploration

JAKARTA – Planetary exploration is very important for NASA and must be carefully prepared. In order for the planet to be explored effectively, NASA requires technology in the form of optical navigation.

Goddard Space Flight Center, one of NASA’s facilities, is famous for the optical navigation technology they have developed. Currently, Goddard is creating three new technologies to help future NASA missions.

The first optical navigation technology being developed is a modeling engine called Vira. This tool is possiblegive 3D environments are large and run 100 times faster than Goddard Image Analysis Tool and Navigation Tool (GIANT).

“Vira combines the speed and efficiency of a consumer graphics modeler with the scientific accuracy of GIANT,” said Gnam, Vira’s director of development. “This tool allows scientists to quickly model complex environments.”

Vira will be used to develop Lunar Navigational Maps (LuNaMaps). This map will be a supporting tool for the Artemis mission and will focus on mapping the South Pole region of the Moon.

The second technology that Goddard is building is a device to enable navigation based on horizon images. This device is useful for astronauts while studying the moon because it is difficult to trust GPS.

This device’s algorithm can display an approximate location based on environmental photos taken. With just one image, this device can display data with an accuracy of about hundreds of feet. At the same time, two images will increase the accuracy to tens of feet.

Finally, Goddard is creating a programming tool called Goddard AI Verification and Integration (GAVIN) Machine suit. The team that developed GAVIN is also building a learning algorithm using the device to identify cracks in unlit areas.