Exploring the Potential of Data Centres in Space
As more companies scale up and generate larger volumes of data, the demand for traditional data centres is increasing. To meet this growing need, companies are exploring alternative locations for data centres.
We've already seen innovative solutions like underwater data centres from tech giants such as Microsoft, which have proven to be feasible. The next frontier? Data centres in space. Unlike the concept of building on the moon, the idea revolves around sending data centres into low Earth orbit (LEO) via spacecraft, paving the way for a new era in data storage.
Why Space Data Centres Could Be the Future
Space data centres offer several compelling benefits that could make them the future of data storage. First and foremost, they can save on land use, making them an attractive option as space on Earth becomes increasingly limited. Additionally, the potential for reduced energy costs is significant. Orbital data centres can harness solar power, which is abundant in space, to lower operational expenses. While orbiting in sunlight, the data centre can collect energy from the sun, and during periods of darkness, batteries will keep the IT hardware running, ensuring continuous operation.
Furthermore, data latency in many instances could be reduced due to the proximity of these data centres to satellites used for things like communication, earth observation, and navigation. By operating closer to these satellites, the transmission of data can achieve higher throughput, improving overall performance and freeing up bandwidth at ground-based receiving stations.
Experiments by HPE tested the durability and performance of computer hardware in space in 2017. They launched a supercomputer to the International Space Station (ISS) to assess whether standard computing hardware could function in space without modifications. The results were quite promising, demonstrating that data centre IT hardware could reliably function in space with the help of special software to correct errors introduced by radiation or galactic cosmic rays.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
The environmental impact of data centres is an increasingly important issue, especially as the number of these facilities continues to grow. According to data from Statista, Europe hosts over 3,000 data centres, while the United States has more than 5,000. As organisations expand and require more data storage, the strain on terrestrial resources will only increase.
Orbital data centres present a sustainable alternative. By relocating data centres to space, we can alleviate the pressure on Earth's limited land resources. And, of course, the use of solar power in space can contribute to a reduction in the carbon footprint associated with data centre operations, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
Challenges and Feasibility of Orbital Data Centres
Despite the promising benefits, the implementation of data centres in space comes with significant challenges. The harsh and unpredictable space environment poses numerous risks to equipment, for example, extreme temperatures and radiation can damage hardware, while micrometeorite impacts and cosmic rays can further compromise system reliability.
Data center cooling systems also present another challenge. Conventional cooling systems are ineffective in space due to the temperature differences between sunlight and shadows. Space-based computers, like those on the ISS, use radiators filled with ammonia for cooling, but it's uncertain whether this method would suffice for hundreds of servers fit into one spacecraft. Additionally, the infrastructure must protect against temperature fluctuations and impacts, requiring robust materials like stainless steel, titanium, and aluminium alloy, along with layers of gold or silver foil for radiation and impact protection.
Experiments by companies like HPE and initiatives by Lumen Orbit and Axiom Space indicate that orbital data centres are feasible, but more research and development are needed to overcome these challenges and ensure reliable long-term operation. Watch the space!