The Avalanche network is expanding its reach into space, with a new system designed to verify telescope data in real-time. SkyMapper's Avalanche-based network cryptographically secures observations from telescopes globally, transforming each data point into a reliable digital record. This network, known as SkyMapper L1, collects data from various telescopes and sensors, generating a secure digital record for each observation. This 'Proof of Space Observation' (POSO) confirms the occurrence, timing, and authenticity of celestial events, providing trustworthy data for scientists, businesses, and government agencies.
The SETI Institute is contributing live observational data, marking a significant integration of institutional science into a blockchain-based verification system. SkyMapper aims to address the growing issue of verifying the vast amounts of data from satellites, drones, and space missions. By utilizing blockchain technology, the company creates a permanent and tamper-resistant record of each observation, allowing for independent verification.
The system operates by validating observations in real-time, cryptographically signing the data, and transmitting it through SkyMapper's infrastructure. Instead of relying on a central database, the data is spread across a decentralized storage network, with a digital fingerprint saved on the Avalanche blockchain. This enables users to verify the authenticity and integrity of the data. The network employs smart contracts to organize and control access to the data, allowing for both private and public sharing of information.
As a result, each observation can be independently verified, enabling users to confirm its source, timing, and authenticity. According to Emin Gün Sirer, founder and CEO of Ava Labs, 'SkyMapper's work demonstrates how blockchain technology can transform science by providing tamper-proof and verifiable telescope records.'