US tech giant Google is planning to put data centers in space to meet the growing demand for artificial intelligence. The company will send its first test equipment into orbit in early 2027.
The new project — Project Suncatcher — involves a system of about 80 solar-powered satellites that will be located about 400 miles above the Earth’s surface. These satellites will be equipped with high-performance processors required to run artificial intelligence models.
According to Google, as the cost of rocket launches rapidly decreases, the operating costs of data centers in space will be comparable to similar facilities on Earth by the mid-2030s. In addition, this approach will minimize the use of land resources and water.
Solar panels to be installed in space will be eight times more efficient than panels on Earth. However, each rocket launch generates hundreds of tons of carbon dioxide emissions, which poses environmental risks.
The data obtained as a result of the project will be transmitted to Earth via optical links — using light or laser signals.
Google’s initiative is developing in parallel with the plans of the SpaceX and Starlink projects led by Elon Musk. Nvidia is also reportedly preparing to launch AI chips into space this month in partnership with startup Starcloud.
Google’s goal is to launch two prototype satellites by 2027 and create the basis for a scalable AI infrastructure in space. However, the company says that engineering challenges such as thermal management, high-speed connectivity and system reliability have not yet been solved.
