Google to send AI‑chip test satellite to low‑Earth orbit on SpaceX rideshare

Google is set to launch its first in‑orbit test under Project Suncatcher, deploying a prototype satellite equipped with Tensor Processing Units. The payload will ride on SpaceX’s Transporter‑18 rideshare launch, shared with Planet Labs. The mission will gather data on the chips’ resilience to launch stresses, space radiation and temperature extremes, and will evaluate a cooling architecture that uses heat pipes and radiators. Engineers note the processors can operate for roughly 15 minutes before cooling is required. The test aims to identify potential failures of AI hardware in the space environment.