Google’s Project Suncatcher and Space-Based Data Centres

Google Unveils Project Suncatcher for Space-Based Data Centres

Google has announced a bold long-term research programme, Project Suncatcher , aimed at developing solar-powered data centres in space. Revealed by CEO Sundar Pichai, the initiative reflects how rapidly growing artificial intelligence workloads are forcing technology companies to rethink where and how computing infrastructure is built. Experimental satellite launches under the project are planned to begin around 2027 .

What Project Suncatcher Plans to Build

Project Suncatcher will focus on deploying satellite-based data centre prototypes that rely entirely on solar energy. These satellites will be fitted with Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) , Google’s custom chips optimised for large-scale AI and machine learning tasks. High-speed optical laser links will connect satellites, allowing them to work together as a distributed computing system. Google also plans to test radiation-hardened hardware capable of functioning reliably in space, with two prototype satellites expected to be launched in collaboration with Planet Labs.

Why Space Is Being Considered for Data Infrastructure

The initiative is driven by the rising environmental cost of Earth-based data centres. AI-driven computing requires enormous electricity and cooling resources, often straining local power grids and water supplies. Space offers continuous access to solar energy, immunity from natural disasters, and reduced dependence on terrestrial infrastructure such as undersea cables. Additionally, data sovereignty concerns make orbital platforms attractive, as outer space is governed by international treaties rather than national borders.

Challenges and Policy Questions Ahead

Despite its promise, space-based computing faces major hurdles. Launch and construction costs remain high, repairs are technically complex, and data transmission still suffers from latency limitations. Cybersecurity and long-term governance of orbital data infrastructure also remain unresolved, requiring global cooperation and new regulatory thinking.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Project Suncatcher targets experimental space data centres by 2027 .

• Tensor Processing Units are Google’s in-house AI accelerator chips.

• The Outer Space Treaty (1967) prohibits national ownership of space.

• Optical laser links enable high-speed satellite communication.