Silk Road in orbit: China to build 20-satellite ‘space AI’ system for Oman

Hangzhou-based Star Vision will build Oman a network of 20 satellites that use AI to process images in orbit and spot ships and floods in real time, in what the company called China’s most valuable commercial space contract ever.

The deal – worth over US$200 million according to the start-up – was signed in Beijing last week with Omani firm Oman Lens during a landmark state visit by the country’s ruler, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq.

Besides the constellation, the package includes a satellite...