Project OWL, the winner of the 2018 Call for Code Global Challenge, is making strides in developing technologies to address connectivity challenges in disaster-prone areas. The team recently conducted air bound tests, known as “SpaceDucks 3,” and successfully launched six balloons equipped with sensors. These balloons can provide connectivity during natural disasters, allowing for easier communication and connection with affected communities. Project OWL’s sensors are designed to withstand disasters and provide global connectivity. The team collaborated with researchers from Cal Poly and students from The University of Texas at Dallas during the test. They also received support from Raytheon Technologies and funding from the U.S. Air Force. Project OWL has partnered with IBM and utilized IBM Watson technology for analytics and communication with the balloons. Through their unique technical solution, OWL aims to provide cost-effective and resilient communication networks for disaster-stricken areas.

How SpaceDucks 3 Enables the Future of Disaster Connectivity

Project OWL’s focus on aerospace technology has the potential to make a significant societal impact by providing remote or disaster-struck regions with basic, low-cost, and simple communications. The recent tests successfully established network links between the ground and the air-bound SpaceDuck sensors, covering a total distance of 60 miles at an altitude of 90,000 feet. OWL’s collaboration with IBM and the utilization of IBM Watson technology played a crucial role in their success. The AI-powered chatbot helped monitor and communicate the status of the balloons throughout the flights.

OWL’s Unique Technical Solution and Problem-Solving Approach

Project OWL’s solution focuses on lightweight, easy-to-use, and cost-effective communications equipment that is crucial during natural disasters. The team proved the effectiveness of their solution by conducting LoRa communications at high altitudes using atmospheric weather balloons. They collected various sensor data and visual media for analysis and publication.

Follow Along with OWL’s Test and Journey

The growth of Project OWL and its partners, with a specific focus on SpaceDucks, has been remarkable. In the future, OWL’s technology could play a crucial role in enabling communication during disaster scenarios when other networks are down. The team is one step closer to realizing this vision and encourages others to join their mission.

Sources: Project OWL, Call for Code, Cal Poly, The University of Texas at Dallas, Raytheon Technologies, U.S. Air Force, IBM

FAQs

What is Project OWL?

Project OWL is a global team of entrepreneurs focused on developing cost-effective and easy-to-use aerospace technologies to address connectivity challenges in disaster-prone areas.

What is the Call for Code Global Challenge?

The Call for Code Global Challenge is an annual competition that encourages developers and technologists to create innovative solutions to tackle global issues, with a focus on natural disasters.

How did Project OWL collaborate with IBM?

Project OWL partnered with IBM, utilizing IBM Watson technology for analytics and communication with their air-bound balloons. The AI-powered chatbot provided updates on the balloons’ status throughout the flights.

What did Project OWL achieve in the SpaceDucks 3 tests?

During the SpaceDucks 3 tests, Project OWL successfully established network links between the ground and the air-bound SpaceDuck sensors, covering a distance of 60 miles at an altitude of 90,000 feet. They also broke their previous altitude record with one of the SpaceDucks reaching 91,863.5 feet.

What is the goal of Project OWL’s technical solution?

Project OWL aims to provide lightweight, easy-to-use, and cost-effective communications equipment that can be used in natural disaster scenarios to establish resilient networks for basic communication needs.