From The Verge · Emma Roth · · 1m 20s
Google launches AI satellite to test space computing
Google is sending a satellite with AI processors to orbit next week to test whether data centers can run in space.
In brief
Google is sending a satellite with AI processors to orbit next week to test whether data centers can run in space. Google is testing whether its AI chips can survive and operate in space as a potential alternative to Earth-based data centers. Originally reported by The Verge.
Google's AI satellite launches next week
Google is sending a satellite equipped with its Tensor Processing Units to space aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on October 1st as part of Project Suncatcher.
Testing chips in the harshest conditions
The mission will measure how Google's TPUs handle radiation, extreme temperatures, and the physical stress of spaceflight in low Earth orbit.
Space data centers could replace Earth facilities
Google plans to eventually put a constellation of chip-equipped satellites into orbit as an alternative to traditional data centers, an idea also explored by Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos.
Cooling is the biggest challenge
Google's chips can only run for about 15 minutes before needing to cool down. The company is testing heat pipes and radiators to solve this problem in orbit.
“some things can only be tested in space”
Two more satellites planned for next year
Google will launch two additional satellites into orbit in 2027 as it continues methodical testing to identify failures and refine its space computing approach.
At a glance
Google is testing whether its AI chips can survive and operate in space as a potential alternative to Earth-based data centers.
