Overview
- Google said Tuesday it has discussed future launches with SpaceX and other providers for Project Suncatcher, its orbital data center effort.
- Project Suncatcher plans two prototype satellites with Planet Labs by early 2027 to trial Google’s TPU-based AI hardware in space.
- The concept aims to tap nonstop solar power and easier heat rejection in orbit to cut reliance on grid power, land, and water on Earth.
- The talks remain preliminary and nonexclusive, according to the Wall Street Journal, and no launch contract or technical deal has been announced.
- SpaceX is promoting orbital computing to investors, pairing a new Anthropic agreement to use its Colossus 1 site in Memphis with regulatory filings that outline large satellite deployments.