Chameleon AI program classifies objects in satellite images faster

EPFL scientists have developed METEOR – an application that can train algorithms to recognize new objects after being shown just a handful of images. Images taken by drones and satellites give scientists a wealth of information. These snapshots provide crucial insight into the changes taking place on the Earth's surface, such as in animal populations, vegetation, debris floating on the ocean surface and glacier coverage. In addition, experts can train neural networks to sort through the images at dizzying speed and spot and classify individual objects. "However, none of the AI programs currently available can immediately switch from recognizing one type of object to another – like from debris to a tree or building," says Professor Devis Tuia, the head of EPFL's Environmental Computational Science and Earth Observation Laboratory.