Applying AI to the hardest problems in space is a growing national priority, and a major 9-month push is already underway. Aerospace is supporting this by building out a set of "AI Proving Grounds" where capabilities and innovations can be demonstrated and evaluated. This is the first event oriented towards creating these software testbeds.

What is it?

An interactive demonstration of an Aerospace-developed wargame, called Spoon Bender, currently being adapted for play by AI agents. Participants in this initial event will learn about the game itself and the data and interfaces it uses, and participate in a live game. Afterwards participants will engage with the game's developers regarding the potential for agent-based play, what is needed in an API or SDK, and other technical concerns.

COMSO Front Door and JCO leaders will present and discuss needs and opportunities from the Defense side, and Aerospace CEO Steve Isakowitz will discuss opportunities for AI developers in this new market.

Why is Aerospace doing this?

AI is becoming a major budget priority in space and defense, but those dollars will be contingent on provable tech readiness and suitability for acquisition. Aerospace is deeply involved in navigating those rules, and in supporting government customers wanting to vet and purchase commercial capabilities. Get in on the ground floor to both help us shape a functioning AI testbed system and have productive conversations with potential future customers.

As Spoon Bender's development progresses, participants will be invited back for a later event (date TBD) at which they can demonstrate their AI-based players. There will also be a related event at TechCrunch Disrupt in San Francisco on October 27.

When and where is it?

Aerospace's AI/ML Demo Day will take place at 10 AM on the morning of September 30, 2025, at Aerospace's Tech Campus in El Segundo, California. The demonstration will take place in the morning, with presentations and tours after lunch.

Who can take part?

Small teams (1-3) of AI developers working in or adjacent to the space industry, orbital mechanics and capabilities, and defense. Startup, commercial, and academic teams are all welcome. Each should be capable of creating agent-based systems that can ingest multiple data sources and modalities (for example, EM frequency, orbital positioning data, abstract threat levels) and produce decisions faster than real-time. Teams must consist of US citizens  and able to demonstrate technical capability in the form of papers, shipped products, or demos. (Detailed technical requirements will be provided to participants.)

Aerospace is reaching out to partner organizations and companies. If you'd like to take part, apply using this form.

Agenda:

Exact times subject to change; full details available upon acceptance.

10:00am: Welcome and introductions

10:30am: Spoon Bender demonstration and game

12:30pm: Lunch, Q&A

2:00pm: COMSO, JCO, Aerospace leadership present

3:00pm: Lab Tours

4:30pm: Closing remarks and next steps

5:00pm: Happy Hour reception