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Satlyt takes another step toward turning satellites into space data centers

Space1 min read

Satlyt, a startup, tested software that can split computing tasks across computers in orbit. The test was a step toward turning satellites into space data centers.

A successful orbital test

Satlyt is building software that turns existing satellites into a network that can process data in space. After 13 months of work, the company ran a successful test with the University of Houston, as part of a NASA-funded research project. The software split tasks among computers while they were in orbit, based on communication links and available computing power.

Key facts from the test

  • The test used a simulated network with 4 computers, 4 users, and 8 services.
  • One real computer on a spacecraft ran the experiment and sent the results back to Earth.
  • Satlyt's software is already on 3 satellites in orbit.
  • Satlyt was founded in 2024 and was in the top five of TechCrunch Disrupt Battlefield this year.

What the software is for

Satellites often have limited computing power, unreliable communication, and slow links back to Earth. Satlyt's software lets a spacecraft process data itself, close to where it is collected. For example, if a satellite sees a wildfire, it can send the useful information to people much faster. Satlyt also wants users to set rules, such as permissions and priorities, while the software makes the detailed decisions.

Why it matters

Sending all data down to Earth takes time and uses scarce communication windows. If satellites can share work and handle it in orbit, people may get useful answers sooner. The test showed the software can make task plans on real hardware in orbit. NASA has not yet chosen this technology for any mission, though.

What to watch next

  • Tests with multiple physical computers, to see how they pass information to each other.
  • Testing under different workloads, hardware, and connection conditions.
  • A fix for a timing error: the software recorded arrival time instead of how long a delay lasted.
  • Secure transfers, permission from operators, and recovery when a computer loses connection.
  • Research on uses beyond low Earth orbit, including 4K video streaming from the Moon.

Glossary

Satlyt
A startup building software that lets existing satellites share computing work in space.
low Earth orbit
The area of space close to Earth, where many satellites circle the planet.
NASA
The U.S. space agency that runs space missions and funds research.
TechCrunch Disrupt Battlefield
A startup competition held by the TechCrunch tech news site.

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