Image: SpaceX
Google is in talks with SpaceX to launch a new experimental project that aims to put AI data centres into space. Known as Project Suncatcher, the initiative involves networking solar powered satellites equipped with Google’s custom AI chips to create a computing cloud in orbit, reports the WSJ.
The search giant is looking to partner with Elon Musk’s rocket company for future launches, though it already plans to send an initial prototype into orbit with Planet Labs around 2027.
Moving data centres into space could solve several terrestrial challenges, such as the massive land and energy requirements of modern AI. These “orbital data centres” would rely on solar energy and could potentially provide high speed processing directly from space.
The move marks a rare moment of cooperation between Google and Elon Musk. While Musk has often been a vocal critic of Google’s AI development, SpaceX is currently preparing for a significant initial public offering (IPO). Building out space based infrastructure is expected to be extremely expensive, making these high profile partnerships a key part of the company’s financial strategy.
Google is not the only player looking at the stars for extra processing power. Last week, the AI startup Anthropic also reached a deal to use SpaceX computing facilities and expressed interest in developing gigawatts of space based data centres in the future.
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