China launches first AI satellites in orbital supercomputer network
The new satellite constellation handles data on board using advanced AI, avoiding the bottlenecks of limited bandwidth and ground station access on Earth.
China has launched the first 12 satellites in a planned network of 2,800 that will function as an orbiting supercomputer, according to Space News.
Developed by ADA Space in partnership with Zhijiang Laboratory and Neijang High-Tech Zone, the satellites can process their own data instead of relying on Earth-based stations, thanks to onboard AI models.
Each satellite runs an 8-billion parameter AI model capable of 744 tera operations per second, with the group already achieving 5 peta operations per second in total. The long-term goal is a constellation that can reach 1,000 POPS.
The network uses high-speed laser links to communicate and shares 30 terabytes of data between satellites. The current batch also carries scientific tools, such as an X-ray detector for studying gamma-ray bursts, and can generate 3D digital twin data for uses like disaster response or virtual tourism.
The space-based computing approach is designed to overcome Earth-based limitations like bandwidth and ground station availability, which means less than 10% of satellite data typically reaches the surface.
Experts say space supercomputers could reduce energy use by relying on solar power and dissipating heat into space. The EU and the US may follow China’s lead, as interest in orbital data centres grows.
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