Google has announced its plan to launch a satellite next week, which will be outfitted with the company's self-developed TPU chips. This marks the commencement of the inaugural on-orbit verification test for the 'Sun Catcher Project.' The primary objective of this mission is to assess whether the TPU hardware can function properly in the space environment, enduring the rigorous vibrations experienced during rocket launches and the effects of space radiation.

The satellite will be equipped with 4 TPU chips, boasting computing power comparable to that of a data center server. Solar panels will supply the satellite with roughly 1 kilowatt of electricity. This launch constitutes a pivotal stride in Google's ambitious scheme to construct a space-based data center network. Looking ahead, the company has plans to deploy additional satellites, aiming to form a satellite cluster capable of collaborative AI task processing.