Google is sending AI chips to space
Google is gearing up to launch two prototype satellites for Project Suncatcher in early 2027.
The idea? Test out solar-powered AI compute hardware in orbit, using their latest Trillium TPUs—AI chips that are four times faster than the last generation.
It's a bold move to take machine learning off-planet.
The satellites will talk to each other through high-speed optical links
These satellites will soak up almost nonstop sunlight thanks to their special orbit and super-efficient solar panels—eight times better than what we use on Earth.
They'll talk to each other through high-speed optical links, moving huge amounts of data back and forth at lightning-fast rates.
How Google plans to address the challenges
Space isn't easy on tech, but these satellites are designed to withstand radiation and with plans to address cooling challenges.
Their modular satellite design inspired by CubeSat standards means Google can upgrade hardware down the line if needed.
Space-based data centers could be cheaper than ground ones by 2030s
If things go well, Google thinks space-based AI data centers could rival ground ones in cost by the 2030s, helping ease strain on land and energy.
There are still concerns about rocket emissions and satellite clutter, so these upcoming launches will be a big test for making this vision real.