On May 14, 2025, China launched 12 satellites from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, marking the start of the “Star Computing” program. These satellites, carried into orbit by a Long March 2D rocket, are the first pieces of a planned 2,800-satellite network called the “Three-Body Computing Constellation.” Unlike traditional satellites that send data to Earth for processing, this network will process massive amounts of information in space, using artificial intelligence (AI) to handle tasks in real time. This could revolutionize industries, from emergency response to scientific research, and even influence military strategies.
Why It’s a Big Deal
Space is the new battleground for global powers, and China’s project raises the stakes. By processing data in orbit, the network avoids the delays and limitations of Earth-based systems. Satellites collect tons of data, but less than 10% of it reaches Earth due to slow transmission, according to the South China Morning Post. This space supercomputer will handle data on the spot, making it faster and more efficient.
The network also has environmental perks. Earth-based data centers need costly cooling systems to prevent overheating, consuming massive amounts of energy. In space, satellites use solar power and radiate heat into the void, reducing their carbon footprint. Jonathan McDowell, a Harvard University expert, told the South China Morning Post that these “orbital data centers” could significantly cut energy needs.
The Tech Behind the Vision
Each of the 12 satellites is a technological marvel, capable of 744 trillion operations per second and equipped with an AI model containing eight billion parameters. They communicate using laser technology at speeds of 100 gigabits per second and store up to 30 terabytes of data. The full constellation aims to achieve 1,000 petaoperations per second, potentially outpacing Earth’s most powerful supercomputers. These satellites can even create 3D digital models for uses like video games, tourism, or disaster response.
The Bigger Picture
China’s space ambitions don’t stop here. Earlier this year, it announced plans for a massive solar array in orbit to capture limitless solar energy, dubbed the “Three Gorges Dam of Space.” The supercomputer network is another step toward China’s goal of leading in space technology, AI, and high-speed computing. Meanwhile, tensions with the U.S. are rising, with reports of American military satellites “buzzing” Chinese ones and concerns over China’s space projects in Latin America.
What’s Next?
China is expected to ramp up its efforts, launching more satellites and refining the technology to outpace competitors. The ST Daily, a Chinese government newspaper, called this project a way to “take the lead in building global space computing infrastructure” and push AI beyond Earth’s limits. As the U.S. and others race to keep up, the skies above could become the next frontier for technological supremacy.
Will China’s space supercomputer change the world, or will it spark new challenges in the global tech race? Only time will tell.
