Google and SpaceX may build data centres in space for future AI needs: Report
Follow UsGoogle and SpaceX in talks to develop data centres in space.
Google is reportedly not limiting itself to SpaceX.
Google also plans to launch prototype satellites by 2027 under a project known as Project Suncatcher.
It seems like tech companies are now looking beyond Earth to support the growing demand for AI. According to The Wall Street Journal, Google and SpaceX are discussing plans to develop data centres in space. The two companies are reportedly exploring the idea of placing computing infrastructure in orbit instead of building more facilities on land.
SurveyThe discussions come at a time when SpaceX is reportedly preparing for its $1.75 trillion IPO later this year. The company is said to be pitching the idea that orbital data centres could eventually become cheaper to operate than traditional ones on Earth. Supporters of the concept also believe that building data centres in space could avoid local opposition often faced by large land-based projects in the US.
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However, experts are still divided on whether the idea is practical right now. A recent report by TechCrunch noted that data centres on Earth are currently much more affordable because launching satellites and building infrastructure in space remains extremely expensive.
Google is reportedly not limiting itself to SpaceX. The company is said to be in talks with other rocket-launch firms as well. The tech giant is also planning to launch prototype satellites by 2027 under a project known as Project Suncatcher, which was announced last year.
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The report also highlights the growing relationship between AI and space companies. Last week, Anthropic partnered with SpaceX to use computing resources from xAI’s data centre in Memphis, Tennessee. The collaboration could later expand to include orbital computing projects.
Elon Musk has been one of the biggest supporters of the idea of space-based data centres. Google and SpaceX already share a history. In 2015, Google invested around $900 million in SpaceX, according to regulatory filings.
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