Starcloud-1 satellite reaches space, with Nvidia H100 GPU now operating in orbit (www.datacenterdynamics.com)

Starcloud has successfully launched its inaugural satellite, Starcloud-1, into orbit, making headlines as it hosts the first Nvidia H100 GPU to operate in space. The satellite, comparable in size to a small refrigerator and weighing 60kg, was deployed from a SpaceX rocket and is expected to function for 11 months at an orbit of 325km before it de-orbits and burns up. As a test mission, Starcloud-1 aims to assess the capabilities of advanced AI processing in space, with plans for a partnership with neocloud Crusoe to provide limited access to its hardware starting in early 2027. This milestone marks a significant step toward realizing large-scale data centers in space, a vision echoed by notable figures such as Jeff Bezos and Eric Schmidt. Starcloud envisions ambitious projects like deploying 5GW data centers powered by extensive solar arrays. With the H100 GPU's high-powered inference and fine-tuning capabilities, the satellite could pave the way for enhanced data processing and analytics in orbit, potentially revolutionizing how we handle space-based data and infrastructure in the coming years. CEO Philip Johnston confirmed the satellite is operating normally and is successfully connected to the ground station, marking a promising start for the venture.