Google unveils Project Suncatcher for space AI | JQJO

Google unveiled Project Suncatcher, a moonshot to test AI computing in space using swarms of solar-powered satellites fitted with its TPU chips and linked by laser communications. The company says early radiation tests suggest the hardware can survive orbit, but CEO Sundar Pichai flagged hurdles including thermal management and on-orbit reliability. To tap constant sunlight and dump heat, the craft would fly sun-synchronous along the day night terminator. A research paper outlines swarms as tight formations acting as one data center, with an 81 satellite concept. Two prototypes, built with Planet, target launch in early 2027.