Google and SpaceX are in talks to launch orbital data centers — WSJ
Google and SpaceX are in talks regarding a potential contract for rocket launches and the deployment of orbital data centers in space.
The Wall Street Journal reported this, citing sources.
The technology in question is still in the conceptual stage. It involves creating computing centers in Earth’s orbit that would operate in space instead of traditional ground-based data centers.
According to sources, this idea became part of SpaceX’s proposal to investors ahead of the company’s potential IPO. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk calls the concept a “new frontier” for the company’s development.
Google confirms that it is also working on similar technologies. Last year, the company announced Project Suncatcher, under which it plans to launch the first satellite prototypes by 2027.
“We will send small computing modules on satellites, test them, and then begin scaling up,” said Google CEO Sundar Pichai.
According to the WSJ, Google is also considering partnerships with other companies involved in rocket launches, indicating a parallel search for partners in space infrastructure.
Industry experts believe that orbital data centers could be a solution to the problems of modern ground-based data centers, which require large areas and significant energy resources. In space, such systems are planned to be powered by solar panels, which potentially eliminates energy consumption constraints.
If the deal between Google and SpaceX is finalized, the companies will become partners in the field of orbital computing, although they were previously viewed as potential competitors in this technological niche.
It is also noted that Google was an early investor in SpaceX and owns 6.1% of the company. Google representative Don Harrison serves on SpaceX’s board of directors. SpaceX has not yet commented on the negotiations.
Elon Musk is exploring the possibility of taking SpaceX public to raise funds for building data centers in space, which are intended to support artificial intelligence systems.
Starcloud, with support from Nvidia, is preparing to begin mining Bitcoin directly in orbit following the launch of a new satellite this year. This is an important step in the development of space technology and cryptocurrencies.
