日经中文网·2026-01-01 00:33Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging concept of space data centers, which are being developed by major US tech companies as a solution to the increasing power and water demands of ground-based AI data centers. Space data centers could potentially replace the need for extensive ground infrastructure due to their efficiency in energy generation and cooling [1][4][11]. Group 1: Companies Involved - Google plans to launch satellites equipped with its high-performance AI semiconductor "TPU" by early 2027 as part of its "Project Suncatcher" to utilize solar energy in space [6][8]. - SpaceX is also interested in the space data center concept, with CEO Elon Musk endorsing the idea and the company preparing for an IPO that may include funding for such initiatives [7][8]. - Other companies like Blue Origin, OpenAI, Starcloud, Axiom Space, and Aetherflux are also exploring or developing technologies related to space data centers [8]. Group 2: Technical Aspects - Space data centers will operate on satellites in Earth's orbit, utilizing solar power for continuous operation and eliminating the need for water cooling, which is a significant requirement for ground data centers [2][10]. - The efficiency of solar panels in space can reach up to eight times that of ground-based systems, allowing for nearly uninterrupted power generation [6][11]. Group 3: Market Demand and Challenges - The demand for power from US data centers is projected to reach 106 GWh by 2035, equivalent to over 100 large nuclear power plants, highlighting the urgency for alternative solutions like space data centers [11]. - The current cost of launching payloads into near-Earth orbit is around $1,500 per kilogram, but if it can be reduced to $200 per kilogram by the mid-2030s, the feasibility of space data centers will significantly improve [11].