China launches first batch of space based supercomputing satellite constellation for AI based data processing in space. A batch of 12 satellites was launched into orbit aboard a Long March 2D rocket. The constellation is part of the 2,800-satellite ‘Star Compute Program,’ a collaborative initiative between ADA Space and Zhejiang Lab.
Each of the 12 satellites is capable of performing up to 744 trillion operations per second, enabling powerful on-orbit data processing. The satellites are interconnected through high-speed laser communication links, allowing data transfer rates of up to 100 gigabits per second. Together, this initial network delivers a combined computing power of 5 peta operations per second (POPS) and offers 30 terabytes of onboard storage. This configuration allows the constellation to handle complex AI-driven tasks in space, reducing the need to transmit large volumes of raw data back to Earth.
The space based supercomputing satellite are also equipped with an advanced space-based AI model featuring 8 billion parameters, enabling them to analyze raw satellite data directly in orbit without relying heavily on ground stations. This onboard processing capability significantly reduces latency and enhances real-time decision-making in space operations. In addition to data processing, the satellites will serve as test platforms for cutting-edge technologies such as cross-orbit laser communication—which allows high-speed data exchange between satellites in different orbital planes.
ADA Space, officially known as Chengdu Guoxing Aerospace Technology Co., Ltd., was founded in 2018 and specializes in AI-driven satellite technology and space-based computing solutions. In January, the company took a significant step toward expansion by filing for an initial public offering (IPO) on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Its partner in the Star Compute Program, Zhejiang Lab, is based in Hangzhou and was established in September 2017 through a collaboration between the Zhejiang provincial government, Zhejiang University, and Alibaba Group. Zhejiang Lab focuses on advancing China’s capabilities in artificial intelligence, intelligent computing, and big data research.
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Space Based Supercomputing Satellite Applications
Orbital data centers offer a sustainable alternative by using solar power and radiating heat directly into space, significantly reducing energy demands and carbon footprint. Traditional data centers on Earth are projected to consume over 1,000 terawatt-hours of electricity annually by 2026—comparable to Japan’s total usage—and require vast amounts of water for cooling. For example, Google used 19.7 billion liters of water in 2022 for this purpose. In contrast, space-based processing overcomes limitations of ground station bandwidth, as currently less than 10% of collected satellite data is transmitted back to Earth due to these constraints.
Space Based Supercomputing Satellite can process vast amounts of imagery directly in orbit, enabling near-instant detection of natural disasters like floods or wildfires. This reduces the delay caused by sending raw data to Earth for processing, allowing faster response and saving lives.
By analyzing astronomical data on board, satellites can filter and prioritize important signals before sending them to Earth. This minimizes bandwidth use and accelerates discoveries, such as detecting new celestial bodies or monitoring cosmic events in real-time.
Processing climate data on orbit allows continuous, high-frequency monitoring of environmental changes like ice melt or air pollution. This helps scientists track trends more accurately and supports timely policy decisions to combat climate change.
With onboard AI and supercomputing, satellites can autonomously adjust their operations—like changing orbit or focusing sensors—without waiting for commands from Earth. This autonomy increases mission flexibility and enables coordinated actions among satellite swarms.
Space-based supercomputing supports experiments in orbit by processing data immediately, reducing the need to send large datasets back to Earth. This is especially important for deep space missions where communication delays are significant.
China’s new space based supercomputing satellite constellation poses strategic concerns for India, given the ongoing tensions and border disputes. With AI-driven, real-time data processing and laser-linked networks, these satellites can enable persistent surveillance over sensitive regions like the LAC and the Indian Ocean. Their ability to autonomously monitor defense activities could enhance China’s military awareness and response speed, potentially giving it an edge in regional conflicts. This development highlights the need for India to strengthen its own space and defense capabilities.
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