Bedrock and NOVI Prove Space-Edge AI
August 18, 2025
Bedrock Research and NOVI Space announced a breakthrough demonstration of AI at the ultimate edge, with Bedrock deploying an object detection model on NOVI’s powerful on-board computer in Low Earth Orbit. The test showed how moving inference from Earth to space improves latency, reduces bandwidth, and minimizes analyst workload, turning raw pixels into decision-ready intelligence in near-real time.
In the demo, the object detection model analyzed a synthetic electro-optical scene, provided by AgileView Inc., that modeled a typical monitoring site along a littoral zone. The model correctly classified vessels and buildings, and the resulting intelligence was downlinked within seconds. The outcome validated an operational workflow that defense and intelligence teams can scale across constellations: analyze at the point of collection, transmit only what matters, and take command of situations faster.
“This is what separating the signal from the noise looks like in space,” said Kevin LaTourette, CEO of Bedrock. “Running the model on orbit significantly advances Bedrock’s Technology Readiness Level and proves we can deliver decision-ready data to operators in seconds, not hours. It is a major step toward supporting the warfighter and urgent priorities like Golden Dome.”
NOVI Space’s multi-sensor GENIE constellation, launching in early 2026
For mission users, seconds matter. Space-edge analytics deliver faster answers and higher confidence while preserving custody in denied and deceptive environments. Instead of shipping terabytes of imagery to sort through on the ground, the system produces concise detections, classifications, and context that flow directly into targeting, alerting, and command workflows. That shift eases stress on contested downlinks, tightens kill chains, and gives analysts time back to focus on decisions rather than data triage. It also creates a clearer path for automated responses where appropriate authority and rules of engagement permit.
“This milestone continues to validate NOVI’s vision for compute on orbit,” said Dr. Michael Bartholomeusz, CEO of NOVI Space. “Our on-board computers are purpose-built to host cutting-edge AI. Pairing them with Bedrock’s geospatial foundation model shows how a dual-use space architecture can deliver timely, mission-relevant answers for national security and commercial operators alike.”
Looking ahead, NOVI’s forthcoming GENIE constellation, planned for early 2026, will have a mixed payload that includes optical and hyperspectral sensors. That kind of architecture is an ideal companion for Bedrock’s multi-modal geospatial foundation model which seamlessly fuses disparate data into a single pane for cross-sensor analysis. More broadly, the test proves a general principle that matters to customers now: putting Bedrock’s foundation model next to any sensor unlocks immediate analytics at collect and minimizes downlink by transmitting only the intelligence that matters.
“Bedrock and NOVI share a simple promise,” LaTourette added. “Turn pixels into decisions faster than the situation changes.” Bartholomeusz agreed. “With space-edge compute proven on orbit, we are ready to help customers scale this capability from a breakthrough demo to a tangible operational advantage.”