Project Starline 3D Calling and Axiom Space Station cater to vastly different needs. Starline aims to revolutionize communication by creating realistic, face-to-face interactions, while Axiom Space Station is focused on building a commercial space platform for research, manufacturing, and habitation in low Earth orbit. The choice depends entirely on the specific application: immersive communication versus space-based services.
| Attribute | Project Starline 3D Calling | Axiom Space Station |
|---|---|---|
| Technology Used | Combines hardware and software advancements in 3D imaging, AI, spatial audio, and real-time compression. Utilizes high-resolution cameras and depth sensors to capture a real-time 3D model of the person. Employs AI algorithms for processing images, motion capture, and facial expression recognition. Uses a light field display to project 3D images with depth, creating a sense of volume without requiring glasses or headsets. AI-driven volumetric video model transforms 2D video streams into realistic 3D experiences. | Canadarm3 technology for robotic interfaces, Cloud technology-enabled orbital data center, Optical Intersatellite Links (OISLs) for high data rates, AI and machine learning capabilities, Edge computing for data processing in orbit, Touch-screen communications panels in crew quarters, Siemens Xcelerator portfolio for digital threads and twins, High-speed cellular network capabilities in spacesuits (with Nokia) |
| Spatial Audio Quality | Incorporates spatial audio to create a realistic soundscape, enhancing the feeling of being in the same room. | Not available |
| 3D Image Resolution and Clarity | High-resolution cameras and depth sensors capture detailed 3D images. AI enhances images for a seamless experience. The system aims for photorealistic representation. | Not available |
| Network Bandwidth Requirements | Uses real-time compression techniques to facilitate smooth video calls, but specific bandwidth requirements aren't consistently mentioned. | Optical links to support up to 10 gigabits-per-second data throughput, Future nodes to integrate emerging 10Gbps+ OISL and space-to-ground optical communications |
| Real-time Communication Latency | Maintains remarkably low latency, ensuring natural conversation flow. | Aim to reduce delays associated with orbital data processing by using Earth-independent cloud storage and edge processing, Targeting lower latency and higher availability cloud capabilities, Round trip delay to ISS is usually 3-6 seconds |
| User Experience and Ease of Use | Aims to replicate face-to-face interaction, including gestures and eye contact. The technology fades into the background. Designed to be more natural and intuitive. | Focus on making it a comfortable, easy-to-use space station, Touch-screen communications panels in crew quarters |
| Scalability (Number of Concurrent Users) | Not available | Hab-1 module to provide quarters for four crew members, Hab-2 module to provide quarters for an additional four crew members |
| Security and Privacy Features | Has a policy for user privacy, and data protection is implemented. User permission is key for using the technology. | Earth-independent endpoint detection and response for cybersecurity, Secure space-based data processing, Multi-factor authentication and cyber intrusion detection and response |
| Integration with Existing Communication Platforms | Designed to integrate with existing video conferencing platforms like Google Meet and Zoom. | Axiom Space is working with Kepler Communications and Skyloom to integrate high data rate Optical Intersatellite Links (OISLs) on Axiom Station, ODC nodes will feature high-speed, 2.5Gbps-capable optical links to other Kepler Communications optical relay assets in LEO |
| Construction Timeline | Prototypes were found in Google offices across the U.S. | Targeting 2027 for the launch of the first module (PPTM), Targeting late 2020s to early 2030s for station completion, PPTM scheduled to launch to the ISS no earlier than 2027, Hab-1 expected to launch no earlier than 2028, Airlock Module (AL) expected to launch in the late 2020s, Research and Manufacturing Facility Module with Earth Observatory (RMF) expected to launch in the early 2030s, Axiom Station could become a free flyer as early as 2028 |
| Habitability and Life Support Systems | Not applicable | Hab-1 will provide quarters for four crew members, Hab-2 will provide quarters for an additional four crew members, Axiom Power Tower expands on Axiom Station's environmental control and life support (ECLSS) capabilities |
| Research and Manufacturing Capabilities | Google partners with HP to produce hardware for Beam. | Hab-1 will accommodate research and manufacturing applications, Research and Manufacturing Facility Module with Earth Observatory (RMF) will provide access to the microgravity environment for research, product development, process improvement, and space manufacturing, Dedicated Research & Manufacturing Facility will provide state-of-the-art capabilities to develop products and processes that cannot be created under the influence of gravity |
| Price | Not available | Not available |