Google plans to launch orbital data centers for AI
Google plans to put AI data centers in space. The company will launch the first test equipment into orbit in early 2027.
Google plans to put AI data centers in space. The company will launch the first test equipment into orbit in early 2027.
Google scientists and engineers believe that densely packed constellations of around 80 solar-powered satellites could be orbited about 400 miles (640 km) above Earth's surface. These satellites would be equipped with the powerful processors needed to meet the growing demand for AI, The Guardian reports .
According to Google research, space launch prices are falling so rapidly that by 2035, the operating costs of a space data center could equal those of a ground-based one.
In addition, satellites will minimize the use of land and water resources currently required to cool existing data centers.
Once in orbit, data centers will be powered by solar panels, which can be up to eight times more efficient than ground-based ones. However, launching a single rocket into space releases hundreds of tons of CO2.
Orbital data centers envisioned as part of the Suncatcher project will transmit their results back via optical communications channels, which typically use light or laser beams to transmit information.
Google is set to launch two prototype satellites in early 2027, calling the research results “the first step toward scalable AI in space.”
However, the company immediately warned: "Significant engineering challenges remain, including thermal management, high-speed communication with Earth, and ensuring system reliability in orbit."
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