LeopardISS Heads to the International Space Station as Part of the IGNIS Mission

We’re gearing up for another milestone in space innovation at KP Labs. Our LeopardISS – a compact data processing unit designed to validate AI algorithms in space – is set to join the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the IGNIS Polish mission in spring 2025. Having completed rigorous integration tests and confirmed compatibility with the ISS infrastructure, LeopardISS is now at ALTEC in Turin, awaiting its journey to orbit. This mission underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of space-based AI and contributing to the future of autonomous technologies in orbit.

Assembling Excellence at Our Gliwice Headquarters

LeopardISS was designed, built, and tested at our headquarters in Gliwice, Poland, leveraging our advanced facilities and expertise. The development process included cleanroom assembly and rigorous testing using thermal chambers to simulate the harsh conditions of space. These measures ensure that LeopardISS is not only reliable but also fully compliant with the International Space Station’s stringent safety and cybersecurity standards.  

“This device was developed entirely in-house, enabling us to fully utilize our expertise and infrastructure,” says Michał Gumiela, our Head of System Engineering. “We’re excited for the moment when we activate LeopardISS on the ISS and run the first algorithms. Every step of this process has been focused on ensuring mission success.”

Redefining AI Testing in Space

LeopardISS is much more than a technological demonstration—it’s a platform that empowers researchers, businesses, and academic institutions to test AI algorithms under the unique conditions of space. Instead of launching dedicated satellites, users can validate their technologies aboard the ISS, significantly reducing costs and time while achieving flight heritage—a crucial certification for space-readiness.

Once onboard, LeopardISS will be integrated into the ICE Cubes Facility in the European Columbus module. This facility provides power, data connectivity, and real-time communication with ground teams, enabling continuous monitoring and interaction with the system. The platform will support tasks ranging from AI-driven image processing to data classification, providing a vital resource for advancing technologies like Edge Computing and Space-Based Data Centers.

Supporting Science and Technology Mission

As part of the IGNIS mission, Polish astronaut Sławosz Uznański will incorporate LeopardISS into his scientific agenda. His work will include assessing the system’s functionality, ensuring smooth operations, and collecting data to enhance its performance. This collaboration highlights Poland’s growing role in international space exploration and reinforces our commitment to fostering innovation within the global space community.

In addition, LeopardISS will support research conducted by Poznan University of Technology. Their team is developing advanced tools for 3D image mapping designed for planetary rover missions. By utilizing LeopardISS, they can refine these tools and expand their potential applications to extraterrestrial exploration, opening up new opportunities for future missions.

Building on the success of Intuition-1

LeopardISS builds on the achievements of Intuition-1, our hyperspectral satellite that has been in orbit for over a year. Intuition-1 demonstrated the effectiveness of our Leopard Data Processing Unit, which autonomously processes hyperspectral images directly in space. This capability reduces data transmission costs and accelerates responses to observed phenomena by analyzing data onboard before it’s sent back to Earth.

Intuition-1 has processed terabytes of hyperspectral data, demonstrating the power of AI-driven space technologies. With LeopardISS, we’re advancing these capabilities further by enabling real-time interaction with the platform aboard the ISS. This step marks a significant evolution in autonomous space-based data processing, creating new possibilities for researchers and commercial entities.

Expanding Opportunities for the Future

Beyond its primary mission objectives, LeopardISS will be an open platform for future collaborators. Researchers, institutions, and businesses will have the opportunity to deploy their algorithms on LeopardISS, using it as a testbed for innovations in space technology. The system is designed to unlock new possibilities for diverse applications, from environmental monitoring to disaster response.

“We see LeopardISS as a tool that empowers researchers and innovators,” says Michał Zachara, our COO. “By providing access to AI testing in space, we’re accelerating the development of new technologies and unlocking opportunities for both academic and commercial projects. This mission isn’t just about what we’re doing—it’s about what others can achieve using this platform.”  

LeopardISS represents our dedication to precision and innovation. From its careful development and testing in Gliwice to its upcoming deployment aboard the ISS, every detail of this mission has been designed to advance space exploration. This journey exemplifies what’s possible when innovation meets determination. We are confident that LeopardISS will not only validate cutting-edge technologies but also strengthen Poland’s role in the global space industry. Spring 2025 marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in autonomous space-based technologies for us at KP Labs.

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