Orbital data centers gain momentum

An editorial discusses the emerging concept of space-based data centers, where data processing and storage would occur aboard satellites in low-Earth orbit, powered by large solar arrays. Entrepreneurs Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, and Eric Schmidt have raised the possibility, and several companies are already taking initial steps: Starcloud Inc. sent an Nvidia processing unit into orbit last year, Axiom Space launched two data-center nodes in January, and Blue Origin and SpaceX are planning large constellations of data-processing units. Proponents argue that space-based data centers could avoid terrestrial issues like land, energy, water constraints, permitting, and political opposition, while benefiting from abundant solar energy. However, significant challenges remain, including cooling, radiation, satellite congestion, and launch economics. The editorial advocates for policy support for space infrastructure, which could benefit the broader space economy regardless of the viability of orbital data centers.