Google reveals Project Suncatcher: orbital AI data centers powered by solar, two prototype satellites planned for early 2027

Google DeepMind/Project Suncatcher

Google DeepMind's Project Suncatcher aims to build orbital AI data centers powered by continuous solar energy. The system uses satellites equipped with Trillium TPU v6e chips linked by free-space optical connections. Two prototype satellites will launch by early 2027 in partnership with Planet Labs. Solar panels in orbit are up to 8 times more productive than on Earth, and TPU chips have been tested for radiation resilience up to 15 krad(Si).

• Constellations of TPU-equipped satellites in sun-synchronous orbits.
• Free-space optical links carrying tens of terabits per second between satellites.
• Solar panels in orbit produce up to 8x more energy than on Earth.
• TPU v6e chips tested for radiation hardness up to 15 krad(Si).
• Two prototypes planned for launch by Q1 2027 with Planet Labs.