Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

Google Launches Experimental Satellite for Space Data Center Project

Google has launched a refrigerator-sized experimental satellite to test the feasibility of its ambitious plan to build data centers in space, powered by sunlight.

The satellite, part of Project Suncatcher, will assess how Google's hardware, including custom tensor processing units (TPUs), performs in the harsh space environment. The TPUs will run AI models and process queries for short periods before shutting down to cool.

Google aims to eventually launch fleets of satellites, each equipped with multiple TPUs, communicating with each other and Earth via lasers to form space-based data centers. This initiative addresses the growing energy demands of AI, which strain terrestrial power grids.

Space offers a potential solution by providing abundant, near-constant sunlight for solar power, estimated to be up to eight times more potent than on Earth. This could significantly reduce the environmental impact of data centers.

However, significant challenges remain. Dissipating heat generated by advanced computer processing is difficult in space, as conventional cooling methods like fans and large amounts of water are not viable. Google is testing a system of pipes and radiators for heat management.

The satellites must also withstand space debris and radiation-induced electrical errors. Google plans to launch two more satellites next year and has proposed clusters of over 80 satellites, acknowledging that taking risks is crucial for learning and innovation.

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