International Astronomy Day is observed on May 18 and October 12 in 2024. It was initiated by Doug Berger in 1973 to get people interested in astronomy [a6bc3e79]. This year, as the world celebrates International Astronomy Day, the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the field of astronomy is being highlighted. AI has revolutionized astronomy by making it faster and more powerful, enabling scientists to uncover new insights about the universe [a6bc3e79].
One significant way AI is changing astronomy is through its ability to analyze vast amounts of data. Researchers at the University of Waterloo in Canada have developed an AI system that has identified more than 27,000 previously overlooked asteroids in old telescope images [e6697786]. By using a machine learning algorithm to analyze images taken by the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (Pan-STARRS) between 2010 and 2018, the AI system detected asteroids that had been missed by previous human analysis. This discovery provides valuable data for scientists studying the solar system and could contribute to future efforts to protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts [e6697786].
In addition to the AI discovery, a team of NASA volunteers has made a remarkable finding by identifying fifteen rare 'active asteroids' that exhibit comet-like tails or envelopes of gas and dust [a757f55f]. This discovery challenges conventional beliefs about the solar system and provides valuable insights into the formation and evolution of celestial bodies, including the origins of water on Earth. The discovery was made possible by the efforts of over 8,000 volunteers who meticulously examined 430,000 images captured by the Dark Energy Camera (DECam) installed on the Victor M. Blanco telescope in Chile. The results of this study were published in The Astronomical Journal, with nine volunteers listed as co-authors. These rare active asteroids could have practical applications in future space exploration, as the ice that generates comet-like tails can be utilized to power rockets or provide breathable air. The volunteers involved in this project expressed their excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to this significant achievement [a757f55f].
AI has also played a role in improving our understanding of celestial objects. The NEOWISE spacecraft, designed and managed by JPL, has released its 10th year of infrared data, capturing how celestial objects change over long periods [4684e799]. NEOWISE focuses on our planet's local cosmic neighborhood, producing a time-domain infrared survey used for planetary science, with an emphasis on asteroids and comets. It has made 1.45 million infrared measurements of over 44,000 solar system objects, including more than 3,000 near-Earth objects (NEOs) and 25 comets. NEOWISE's data is used to refine the orbits of asteroids and comets and estimate their size. The spacecraft is expected to become unusable in the months following decommissioning due to falling out of orbit and burning up in Earth's atmosphere [4684e799].
As we celebrate International Astronomy Day, the role of AI in revolutionizing the field of astronomy cannot be overstated. From discovering overlooked asteroids to identifying rare active asteroids and improving our understanding of celestial objects, AI has opened up new possibilities for scientific exploration and discovery in the vastness of the cosmos [a6bc3e79].
On AI Appreciation Day, industry leaders shared their insights on the advancements and contributions of AI across various sectors [0f4bfe8d]. Georges-Olivier Reymond, co-founder and CEO of Pasqal, highlighted the potential of pairing AI with quantum technology to enhance efficiency and capabilities. Richard Robinson, founder and CEO of Robin AI, emphasized the value of AI in the legal sector for speeding up administrative processes and expanding access to legal services. Madeleine Corneli, lead product manager of AI/machine learning at Exasol, emphasized the ongoing impact of classic AI and its relevance in meeting stricter business requirements. Jake Varghese, EVP and GM of business management at ConnectWise, urged organizations to adopt AI-driven solutions to work smarter and improve customer experiences. Other industry leaders discussed topics such as the importance of deep learning in cybersecurity, the impact of data storage on AI, and the need for AI 'kill switches' to prevent security breaches. The article also includes insights on AI-generated videos, proactive security enabled by AI, and the role of AI in preserving endangered languages [0f4bfe8d].