OFFICIAL multi-sensor based, high degree of freedom tracking for the aerospace industry has provided insights into improving precision of slope deformation and rock fall trajectory tracking. Further, stereo–depth fusion pipelines improved for aerospace applications are now being applied to underground mining for mine equipment condition monitoring (Sun et. al., 2023). The space program’s emphasis on compact, power‑efficient payloads further supports development of ruggedized sensing (e.g. modular platforms deployable in underground applications). Figure 5 – Technology progression, from geotechnical to aerospace showing original Sirovision photogrammetry and geotechnical mapping technology for underground and surface mining (two left most images), progression to application of novel 3D vision technologies for aerospace manufacturing (central image) and finally, MRS payload development and launch to ISS (right two images). 4. FUTURE TRENDS The next decade will see geotechnical monitoring evolve from discrete sensing systems into fully integrated, intelligent networks that underpin autonomous mining operations. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a pivotal role in this transformation, enabling realtime interpretation of multi-modal data streams from radar, vision, distributed fibre optic sensing (DFOS) and a multitude of traditional geotechnical sensors. AI-driven analytics will support predictive hazard detection, dynamic risk assessment, and adaptive control strategies for slope stability and rockfall mitigation. Machine learning models will also facilitate sensor fusion at scale, reducing false positives and improving situational awareness for both human operators and autonomous agents. Silicon photonics is poised to revolutionize DFOS deployment by miniaturizing and costoptimizing interrogator units. Photonic integrated circuits will replace bulky optical components, delivering compact, energy-efficient systems capable of supporting kilometre-scale sensing networks. This advance will enable widespread adoption of DFOS for continuous strain, temperature, and acoustic monitoring in both surface and underground environments, bridging the gap between laboratory prototypes and rugged mine-ready solutions.
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