Google's Space-Based Datacenter Ambitions Face Numerous Technical Hurdles

Google has successfully launched its first 'Suncatcher' datacenter satellite into space as part of Project Suncatcher. The project aims to test whether Google's tensor processing units (TPUs) can survive in space and function as intended. The company hopes that the limitless solar energy available in space will make it economically viable to put servers into orbit.

Google has published a peer-reviewed research paper outlining the challenges that must be met for orbital datacenters to become a reality. According to the paper, SpaceX's goal of reducing launch costs to $200/kg is 'plausible under reasonable assumptions.' However, Google notes that many technical hurdles remain, including developing suitable network technologies and satellite designs.

Existing network technologies are not sufficient to link multiple satellites into functioning clusters, and Google's plans require a design significantly larger than current satellite constellations. The company also acknowledges the need for rapid comms between satellites, which will necessitate overcoming challenges such as atmospheric turbulence and high-speed relative motion errors.