Alphabet's 4G connection balloons have deployed new navigation systems using deep reinforcement-learning AI that is teaching itself to optimise navigation. The balloons can navigate the stratosphere in an autonomous and stable fashion, enhancing the Internet coverage of these floating cell towers.
It is the first time that such technology, resulting from a collaboration between Loon and Google AI, Alphabet's division specialised in artificial intelligence, is used in aerospace.
This artificial intelligence is based upon deep reinforcement-learning. This learning technique allows the balloons to learn from each new experience, even failures. This means that automated learning trains the balloons to make their own decisions depending on the weather conditions they have to face (winds, rainfall...).
The main objective is to allow these floating cell-towers to keep a constant altitude in the stratosphere in order to deliver the best possible service to local populations. This system aims at offering a more stable service to people who need to access this type of Internet connection in remote areas.
The first Loon balloons were deployed in Kenya, where a commercial offer for Internet access was launched last summer. These balloons work on solar energy and fly at an altitude of 20,000m. In theory, a balloon can cover 11,000 sq km. A 35-balloon fleet is currently in the stratosphere above Kenya, covering in total of 50,000 sq km in the centre and the west of the country.
Loon's stated goal is to make the Internet accessible to all of the world's population, including those who live in very remote areas. – AFP Relaxnews
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