The concept of establishing data centers in outer space—specifically in orbit around the Earth or on the Moon—may sound like a narrative straight out of a science fiction tale. However, significant strides are being made in this ambitious venture. Recently, Stephen Eisele, the president of Lonestar Data Holdings, expressed optimism, stating that his company envisions data centers on the Moon as a future reality. He asserts that the incorporation of data centers in space offers unmatched security options for sensitive information.
In an extraordinary endeavor last month, Lonestar Data Holdings successfully conducted a test involving a miniature data center fitting into the size of a hardback book. This tiny center was transported to the Moon via the Athena Lunar Lander, a project by the US space exploration firm Intuitive Machines, which was launched with the help of a SpaceX rocket owned by entrepreneur Elon Musk. Traditionally, data centers consist of expansive warehouses housing machines that store and manage data for various entities, including websites, governmental bodies, and businesses. Lonestar argues that relocating these data centers to the Moon could enable better security and reliability while utilizing abundant solar energy to fuel operations.
The significant push towards space-based data centers can largely be attributed to soaring demand and the increasing difficulty of finding viable positions for data centers on Earth. The surge in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has led to a rapid escalation in the volume of data that organizations require for storage and processing. According to consulting firm McKinsey, the demand for data centers is predicted to grow annually by 19% to 22% by 2030.
As new facilities continue to emerge, it becomes progressively challenging to establish them on terrestrial ground. Local communities often resist the construction of data centers nearby due to their extensive energy demands, expansive layouts, and the considerable water required for cooling these facilities. The thought of positioning data centers in space presents an intriguing solution, as it means minimizing negative environmental impacts. With virtually unlimited solar power accessible in orbit and no local inhabitants to voice concerns over environmental consequences, the feasibility of this concept becomes more appealing.
Moreover, space-based data centers could provide specialized services to spacecraft and other space-based installations, offering data transfers at potentially higher speeds compared to ground-based alternatives. A recent feasibility study sponsored by the European Commission researched the viability of creating orbiting data centers. The resulting study, conducted by Thales Alenia Space—a collaborative venture between French and Italian aerospace firms Thales and Leonardo—suggested that such initiatives could revolutionize the digital landscape of Europe while enhancing eco-friendliness.
The report revealed plans for deploying a constellation of 13 satellites, which would collectively measure approximately 200 meters by 80 meters, possessing a total processing capability of 10 megawatts. This output is comparable to that of a medium-sized data center on Earth, capable of housing 5,000 servers.
However, experts highlight the challenges that lie ahead. Dr. Domenico Vicinanza, an associate professor at Anglia Ruskin University, puts forth that while firms are optimistic, there are significant barriers to overcome. The costs associated with launching hardware into orbit remain staggering, with each kilogram sent to space costing thousands of dollars. Additionally, the data centers would not only require the hardware but also sophisticated infrastructure for protection, power, and cooling—factors that add complexity to the project.
Cooling systems specifically present a challenge due to the lack of gravity in space, requiring innovative solutions. Furthermore, space weather poses risks to electronics, and the omnipresent threat of space debris could jeopardize the operations of these stations. Repairing hardware in orbit is another daunting prospect; while robotics and automated systems are advancing, limitations still exist in remote repairs. A significant malfunction might necessitate a costly human mission, leading to extensive downtimes.
Nevertheless, despite these hurdles, companies like Lonestar remain confident in the feasibility of their proposals, responding to a demand from clients such as the state of Florida and the Isle of Man government. The expectation is to have a small data center operational in lunar orbit by 2027, with others like Starcloud aiming for even sooner deployments. The interest in providing higher data security and addressing data sovereignty issues under space law amplifies the relevance of these space-based data centers in addressing modern technology needs.
