Aetherflux, a U.S.-based startup focused on solar power technology, plans to launch its first data center satellite in early 2027 as part of an initiative termed the “Galactic Brain.” This development aims to support tech companies facing challenges with existing data centers caused by space and energy limitations related to artificial intelligence requirements. The proposal includes deploying data centers in orbit to utilize solar energy continuously.
According to Aetherflux’s founder and CEO, Baiju Bhatt, the expansion of artificial intelligence capabilities requires significant computing power, which in turn demands substantial energy. He emphasizes that existing energy strategies may not suffice for meeting future demands, highlighting the need to position solar energy sources alongside computational systems, effectively bypassing terrestrial power challenges.
Aetherflux enters a competitive landscape that includes major players like Google, Blue Origin, and SpaceX. These companies are exploring the viability of orbital data centers, which could operate with photovoltaic panels unaffected by the day-night cycle. Aetherflux also indicates that its technology builds on previous efforts to transmit solar energy from space to Earth using laser technology.
However, Aetherflux and its competitors are facing various challenges before these data centers can become operational. While the expense of launching satellites has diminished over the years, launching and maintaining space-based data centers remains costly. Additionally, ensuring the durability of AI chips against radiation and the risk of collisions with other orbital entities are significant concerns that need to be addressed as space becomes increasingly crowded.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/841887/data-center-space-solar-power-aetherflux-lunch