Google's AI data centers in space

Google recently launched Project Suncatcher, a moonshot research project that aims to circumvent the energy requirements of Earth-based data centers by using solar satellites fitted with its AI chips to conduct AI workloads in space. The specifics: In order to eliminate electricity and grid limits, the concept calls for circling satellites with solar panels that can produce power continuously at an efficiency of eight times. Google's AI processors overcame the challenge of conventional electronics failing within months by surviving radiation testing comparable to five years in space. In order to determine whether the gear can truly function in orbit, Google plans to do a trial run with two satellites in 2027 through its partner business Planet. Globally, the buildout for the AI boom has already been enormous, and it is now aiming for the stars. A successful space deployment could enable AI scalability with limitless solar power, free from the energy costs of existing infrastructure, community opposition to data centers, and power grid limitations.