Google’s Project Suncatcher aims to launch AI chips into space

The tech giant is planning to launch artificial intelligence data centers into space under a bold new initiative called Project Suncatcher. Google unveiled the plan on Tuesday.

The company aims to send two prototype satellites into orbit by early 2027, marking a major step toward creating solar-powered constellations about 400 miles above earth. 

Each cluster could include around 80 satellites equipped with Google’s powerful Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) to handle the growing AI demands.

Cost and sustainability edge
According to Google’s research, rapidly falling launch costs could make space-based data centers as affordable as those on earth by the mid-2030s. 

The solar panels powering these satellites could generate up to eight times more energy than Earth-based ones, reducing dependence on land and water used for cooling data centers. 

Nvidia and startup Starcloud are also exploring similar ventures, citing potential carbon savings of up to tenfold over time.

Challenges ahead
Despite the promise, obstacles remain. Rocket launches emit hundreds of tonnes of CO2, and astronomers warn of growing satellite interference. 

The cluster also needs to be tightly packed; each satellite should be a kilometer apart for optimal power.

The sun’s radiation is also a major challenge, as it can corrupt processing units.

However, Google says space may be the best place to scale AI computing, offering vast renewable energy with minimal terrestrial impact.