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Google in talks with SpaceX for Suncatcher orbital data centre project
Alphabet’s Google said it has been in discussions with SpaceX and others about future launches for Project Suncatcher, an orbital data centre concept that would network solar-powered satellites equipped with Tensor Processing Units into an orbital AI cloud. The Wall Street Journal reported the talks earlier, and Google confirmed on May 12; the company also outlined plans for an initial prototype with Planet Labs around 2027. The report also notes Anthropic's involvement with SpaceX’s Colossus 1 facility.
Why It Matters
The talks signal growing collaboration between AI and space firms to host AI infrastructure in orbit, signaling a potential shift in how large-scale computing capacity could be deployed in space.
Timeline
5 Events
Anthropic may use SpaceX Colossus 1 for space-based data centres
May 13, 2026
Anthropic agreed to use the full computing power of SpaceX’s Colossus 1 facility in Memphis and expressed interest in developing multiple gigawatts of space-based orbital data centres.
Prototype plan with Planet Labs for 2027
May 13, 2026
Google plans an initial prototype launch with Planet Labs around 2027.
Project Suncatcher described as orbital AI data centre concept
May 12, 2026
Project Suncatcher is described as a research effort to network solar-powered satellites equipped with Tensor Processing Units into an orbital AI cloud.
Google confirms talks with SpaceX and others
May 12, 2026
Google said it has been in discussions with SpaceX and others about future launches for Project Suncatcher.
WSJ reports Google-SpaceX talks on Suncatcher
May 12, 2026
The Wall Street Journal reported that Google was pursuing discussions with SpaceX regarding Project Suncatcher.