Google AI Chips Blast Off into Orbit as Space-Based Data Centers Gain Momentum

Today marked a significant milestone in the space race as Google's AI chips blasted off into orbit aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The satellite, dubbed 'MVP', carries four AI chips from Alphabet Inc.'s (GOOGL) Gemini chatbot project and will test their ability to handle harsh conditions in space.

The move is part of Google's goal to develop data centers that can be deployed in orbit, which would allow for greater computing power and reduced energy consumption. Earth-based data centers face challenges such as rising power bills, water usage, and community pushback, making space a more viable option.

Elon Musk has long advocated for orbital compute, predicting it will become necessary by 2029 due to power availability and permitting problems on land. However, Google's research suggests that space-based AI won't make economic sense until around 2035.