PARTNER PROFILE: TerraSense

Combining remote-sensing technologies with artificial intelligence.

TerraSense’s artificial intelligence platform makes high-tech surveillance faster and more effective in challenging environments. Co-located on UBC’s Okanagan campus, the company’s deep neural computer network mimics how the human brain processes information, but at a much faster speed.

Successfully applying artificial intelligence and sensors to identify specific objects in the complex natural environment motivated the TerraSense team to explore opportunities in other sectors.

With the support of UBC STAR, the company has successfully applied its capabilities to solve safety and security challenges. Working in close collaboration with UBC researchers, TerraSense was awarded an Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security competitive project contract to develop a Multimodal Input Surveillance & Tracking (MIST) technology that identifies objects of interest using video feeds transmitted from remote locations, including search and rescue aircraft.

TerraSense is currently operating from UBC STAR’s incubator, where its staff sit alongside UBC students and faculty.“TerraSense’s machine learning experts collaborating with UBC STAR researchers creates a network of problem-solvers helping us sharpen our focus while connecting us to new opportunities in safety and security with excellent prospects for export to market in other countries,” says TerraSense Analytics Director Steve Milne.

When asked to point to the bigger difference UBC STAR makes to TerraSense, Milne is quick to acknowledge: “UBC STAR helps us step toward the future, while keeping up with opportunities today. As we grow, we are also creating work experience opportunities for students and we are very happy to have UBC graduates joining our workforce.”

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