On Thursday, July 4, 2024, the official launch of the project “Artificial Intelligence-enabled Hardware Cosmic Radiation Sensor for Space Applications” (AICoRS) took place during a mixed session at the Research and Development Institute of Transilvania University (UNITBV). This innovative project is one of the eight projects approved for funding in the competition for “Bilateral Collaboration Projects with the Republic of Moldova,” part of Program 5.8 – European and International Cooperation, Subprogram 5.8.3 – Bilateral/Multilateral, initiated by the Executive Agency for Higher Education, Research, Development and Innovation Funding (UEFISCDI Romania) in 2023.
The project coordinator, Professor Mihai Ivanovici from Transilvania University of Brașov, emphasized that the main goal of the AICoRS project is to design, implement, and validate an experimental model of a cosmic radiation sensor (Single Event Upset detector) for space applications (at TRL 4 level), which will be implemented in hardware on an FPGA. This sensor will feature a hardware implementation of an Artificial Intelligence model for real-time analysis of defect patterns induced by cosmic radiation in integrated electronic systems within satellites. Additionally, the objectives, activity plan, and expected results of the project were presented.
The UNITBV project team is led by Professor Mihai Ivanovici and includes postdoctoral researchers Ștefan Popa and Alexandru Dinu, PhD student Artur Kazak, and student Andrei Bertescu. Representing the Technical University of Moldova, the team comprises project manager Nicolae Secrieru, postdoctoral researcher Viorel Cărbune, and PhD students Vladimir Melnic and Tudor Zadorojneac.
In his speech, UTM Rector Prof. Dr. Viorel Bostan highlighted the strong relationship between UTM and UNITBV, emphasizing the critical importance of scientific research and its promotion. He noted that these initiatives are essential for the academic and technological development of the university, positioning UTM as a catalyst for innovation and international collaboration. This robust support for research projects helps strengthen scientific ties with institutions in Romania and places UTM at the forefront of regional scientific and technological advancement.
The launch of the AICoRS project marks a significant milestone in strengthening scientific and technological collaboration between higher education institutions in Romania and the Republic of Moldova. This initiative showcases the firm commitment of both universities to academic excellence and innovation.
