News: Recently, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) launched an ambitious Moonshot Project to develop advanced brain co-processors using neuromorphic hardware and artificial intelligence.
About “Moonshot” Project
- The Moonshot Project is an advanced research initiative that aims to develop brain co-processors to decode neural signals, process them using artificial intelligence, and restore lost brain functions.
- Launched by: The project is launched by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc).
- Funded by: The project is funded by the Pratiksha Trust, founded by Senapathy ‘Kris’ Gopalakrishnan and Sudha Gopalakrishnan.
- Aim: The project aims to develop implantable and non-invasive brain co-processors that decode neural activity from recordings, process it using artificial intelligence, and send signals back to the brain through neural stimulation or neurofeedback.
- Key Features
- Key focus: The project focuses on restoring sensorimotor functions such as reaching and grasping in stroke survivors through brain co-processors.
- Technology used: The system combines neuromorphic hardware, artificial intelligence algorithms, neural recordings, and closed-loop stimulation to restore coordinated movement.
- Dual approach: The project develops both implantable devices and non-invasive brain co-processors to support neurological rehabilitation.
- Digital public goods: The initiative plans to develop India-specific stereo EEG and ECoG databases and create open-source AI tools, datasets, and visualization platforms.
- Two-phase development: Phase one develops and validates a non-invasive neural co-processor, while phase two aims to build a minimally invasive embedded implant.
- Significance: The project will build indigenous neurotechnology capacity in India and support stroke rehabilitation by restoring critical functions such as goal-directed reaching and grasping.
