Satellite Oracles: Towards Trustless Dissemination of Earth Observation Data by TxPipe, NMKR & Gamma Earth

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Yosef Akhtman

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Entity (Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

12

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

No

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

Our project introduces Cardano-based oracles for secure, transparent, and tamper-proof dissemination of Earth observation data, ensuring integrity and accessibility for all users.

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

No

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

No dependancies

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

All systems and software assets developed as part of the proposed scope of the project will be open-sourced and deployed on GitHub. Some background IP pertaining to the processing of satellite imaging data will not be included

[METADATA] SDG rating

Multiple SDG categories will be significantly benefited through availability of timely and reliable monitoring, reporting and verification remote sensing and environmental data.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our project builds on an existing system that efficiently collects and processes Earth observation data from satellite sources. This established platform ensures the accuracy and timeliness of the data, leveraging advanced processing algorithms to prepare it for distribution.

To date the product has been used to process over 120 million sq. km of satellite imaging data for large commercial clients including Bayer, CNH, Mahindra, Limagrain, ICL, Varda and others. Since the beginning of May 2024 the system has been released in open access for academic and humanitarian use cases and has gained hundreds of users working on various projects spanning conflict monitoring, flood and natural disaster management as well as a wide array of research activities in ecological studies and natural resource management.

Click here to read more about the about the satellite and image process innovation 

The scope of this proposal primarily focuses on the novel dissemination and integration of this data using the Cardano blockchain. By developing an open source oracle, we will enable the transparent distribution of the processed data directly to users and applications. 

The oracle, implemented through a combination of off-chain workers and on-chain validators on Cardano, will serve as the first step towards what should become a decentralized oracle system which autonomously handles data transactions ensuring data integrity and security. (TXPipe to expand)

Integrating with Cardano allows us to leverage its robust capabilities for handling high transaction volumes and maintaining low operational costs, which is critical for the scalability of our solution. This blockchain integration ensures that all disseminated data is immutable and publicly verifiable, fostering trust and wider acceptance of our platform.

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

Implementing 'Satellite Oracles' on Cardano significantly enhances the blockchain's utility by introducing real-time Earth observation data into its ecosystem. This integration not only showcases Cardano's robust capabilities in handling large-scale, decentralized data applications but also attracts new users and developers interested in environmental data and related technologies.

 

The availability of reliable and transparent environmental data through Cardano will encourage the development of new applications across various sectors, including agriculture, finance (micro finance, insurance), climate action (forest conservation, Carbon) , and urban planning. This will lead to increased transaction volume and more use cases for ADA, thereby strengthening its value proposition.

 

Furthermore, by fostering a community around satellite data, we aim to catalyze partnerships with environmental organizations and educational institutions, enhancing Cardano's reputation as a platform for innovative and impactful solutions.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

Our team comprises seasoned professionals in blockchain, data analytics, and project management. Their past experience and proven track record in successfully handling complex technology projects reinforce our ability to execute this project efficiently.

We utilize agile methodologies to ensure flexible and transparent project management. Regular reviews and external audits by blockchain experts are conducted to monitor our progress and maintain transparency.

Preliminary testing and community feedback have shown that our approach is both practical and scalable. Engaging with the community helps us refine our strategy and adapt to practical needs.

Our financial practices are transparent, ensuring that funds are used appropriately and in line with project goals.

[PROJECT MILESTONES] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

Planning and Design (6-8 weeks)

This milestone establishes the foundational elements of the project, outlining a comprehensive project roadmap and initial technical designs. It focuses on defining the scope, key deliverables, and timelines for selected integration use cases, ensuring that the project's infrastructure is planned in detail from the outset.

Outputs: 

• Complete project plan
• System architecture, and initial smart contract designs.

Acceptance Criteria:

• System architecture diagrams and technical design account for the following use cases - carbon markets, field boundary detection, crop classification, crop insurance, yield prediction
• Project plan includes at least 2 major integration use cases

Evidence:

A link to a PDF detailing the system architecture, technical design and project plan

Development of the Oracle infrastructure (12 - 14 weeks)

The second milestone involves developing and testing the Oracle infrastructure necessary for the Cardano integration. This includes setting up both the on-chain and off-chain components to handle Oracle transactions efficiently and securely. The goal is to establish a robust Oracle system ready for deployment on the Cardano testnet.

Output: Fully functional Oracle infrastructure ready for deployment on the Cardano preprod testnet.

• Implement off-chain backend to process Oracle requests
• Implement on-chain validators to handle Oracle transactions
• Define and document API interface for integration with external data source
• Provision and management of cloud infrastructure
• Execution and reporting of integration tests

Acceptance Criteria:

• Oracle data requests can be submitted on-chain
• Oracle data request are fulfilled and results are available on-chain
• Integration tests results show data consistency and expected performance
• Development process follows best practices

Evidence:

• Publicly available source-code repository.
• Version-control history and change-log
• Backend and API documentation for administrators
• On-chain interface documentation for data consumers
• On-chain transactions as results of the integration testing
• Report describing performance and capacity of the protocol

 Integration with Earth Observation Data Sources (12 - 14 weeks)

This milestone focuses on integrating the Oracle infrastructure with external Earth observation data sources. The objective is to operationalize the data retrieval and processing through the developed Oracle system, ensuring that satellite data can be effectively utilized for various analytical applications.

Output: Operational integration of oracles with satellite data sources on the Cardano testnet.

• Implement Uber's Hexagonal Hierarchical Spatial Index (H3)
• Define and implement the schema for satellite and auxiliary environmental data cubes
• Integrate advanced features including super-resolution processing and cloud removal
• Define and implement the mechanism storage and hashing of data cubes
• Implement API endpoints for the ingestion of satellite data by the Oracle
• Public API documentation and access

Acceptance Criteria:

Successful data retrieval and processing through the smart contracts from at least two different satellite sources.

Evidence:

Integration test reports.

Data flow diagrams and validation records.

Public Testnet Launch (4 - 6 weeks)

Milestone 4 aims to launch the fully integrated system on the Cardano public testnet, allowing real-world testing and user feedback collection. This stage is crucial for validating the system’s functionality under operational loads and making necessary adjustments based on user interactions and technical performance.

Output:

• Deployment of the system on the Cardano testnet for public access and integration testing.

Acceptance Criteria:

• Deployed system must demonstrate the two selected use cases 

Evidence:

• Preprod testnet deployment addresses of all smart contracts.

Integration testing report

Integration with NFT minting capabilities (4 - 6 weeks)

This milestone involves integrating NFT minting capabilities into the system, enabling the representation and certification of Earth observation data on the Cardano blockchain. This feature will enhance data authenticity and traceability, providing a secure method for verifying and trading data assets.

Output:

• Development and integration of NFT minting functions within the Oracle system.
• Creation of a framework for issuing NFTs that represent specific datasets, enhancing data security and ownership verification.

Acceptance Criteria:

• Successfully mint NFTs that encapsulate key data attributes and ensure traceability and authenticity.
• Demonstrate the functionality and security of NFT transactions on the Cardano blockchain.

Evidence:

• Code repository updates with NFT functionality implementation.
• Transaction logs showing successful NFT minting and transfer on the testnet.

Documentation detailing the NFT minting process

Community Engagement, and Project Close-out (4 - 6 weeks)

In addition to the closeout report and Video, this final milestone focuses on community engagement and evaluation of the system's performance on the Cardano testnet. It includes collecting detailed user feedback, validating the project's impact and success through community interactions.

Output:

• Execution of community engagement initiatives like workshops and demos to gather feedback from potential dapps that can connect to the Oracle and demonstrate the system's capabilities.
• Project closeout report and video

Acceptance Criteria:

• At least two workshops/demos performed with potential users project closeout report & video as per https://docs.projectcatalyst.io/fund-documentation/fund10-docs/funded-project-reporting-guideline/project-closeout-report-and-project-closeout-video-pcr-and-pcv

Evidence:

• A link to closeout report - PDF file on Github
• Link to closeout video

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

Yosef Akhtman - Earth Observation Technology Lead: Yosef is a technologist and founder with deep expertise in Remote Sensing, Environmental Monitoring, Geo-Information Systems, and Machine Learning. He founded Gamma Earth in 2020, focusing on developing advanced Earth Observation technologies for environmental monitoring and precision farming. He also founded and led Gamaya, a Swiss startup in precision agriculture.

Linkedin profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akhtman/

Shay Gammer - Project Lead/Manager: Shay is a seasoned professional with a rich background in computer science and finance, adept at leveraging blockchain technologies to drive innovation. Responsible for overseeing the project, coordinating efforts, managing resources, and ensuring the project's overall success.

Linkedin profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shay-gammer-8046966/

Santiago Carmuega, founder TxPipe - Blockchain Developer: This team member will be responsible for developing the smart contract architecture on Cardano, ensuring the secure and efficient operation of decentralized oracles.

Linkedin profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/santiagocarmuega/

Patric Tobler, NMKR CEO - NFT Specialist: Focused on integrating NFT technologies to represent or certify Earth observation data on the Cardano blockchain, enhancing data authenticity and traceability.

Linkedin profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-tobler-6593b912b/

Nils Helset, Digifarm CEO - 15th generation farmer in Norway. Extensive experience with precision agriculture services and agronomy - over 8 years experience in crop-producing. Digifarm will provide an AI layer on top of the image processing focused on agriculture farm borders. This will be part of the content added to the Oracle.

Linkedin profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nilshelset/

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Project Phases and Associated Costs:

Planning and Design: ₳75k

Project Lead ~ ₳25k

Blockchain Lead ~ ₳15k

Satellite Tech Lead ~ ₳25k

NFT Specialist ~ ₳5k

additional technical consultants, and administrative expenses ~ ₳5k

Development of the Oracle Infrastructure: ₳130k

2 Developers (Rust, Aiken) ₳80k

Tech Lead ~ ₳40k

Project Lead ~ ₳10k

Integration with Earth Observation Data Sources: ₳130k

1 API developer  ₳60k

Tech Lead ~ ₳60k

Project Lead ~ ₳10k

Public Testnet Launch: ₳80k

Project Lead ~ ₳15k

Blockchain Lead ~ ₳35k

Satellite Tech Lead ~ ₳25k

Hardware and technical expenses ~ ₳5k

NFT Integration: ₳60k

Budget for developing NFT minting functionalities and integrating them into the existing system.

Community Engagement and Project Closeout: ₳25k

Budget for community workshops, and final project reporting.

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

"Satellite Oracles: Trustless Dissemination of Earth Observation Data using Cardano" offers exceptional value for the Cardano ecosystem by introducing innovative uses of blockchain for real-world applications. The investment in this project will:

• Enhance Cardano's Utility: By incorporating Earth observation data, Cardano's utility in real-world applications increases, attracting new users and developers.
• Drive Technological Innovation: This project pushes the boundaries of what's possible with Cardano by integrating cutting-edge technologies in Earth observation and blockchain.
• Generate Economic Activity: Increased transaction volume from users accessing the data and developers building applications on Cardano will stimulate economic activity within the ecosystem.
• Catalyze Community Growth: By providing access to vital data, the project supports community-driven initiatives and collaborations, strengthening the overall network.
• Promote Environmental Sustainability: Enables better decision-making in critical areas such as climate action, agriculture, and urban planning, aligning with global sustainability goals.