Spaceborne Computer revolutionizes space exploration

CLOUD

In a significant leap for space technology and exploration, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co. successfully launched the third iteration of its Spaceborne Computer aboard the Northrop Grumman Corp. Cygnus spacecraft.

The event heralded a new chapter in HPE’s ongoing mission of discovery and exploration, aiming to enhance civilization’s understanding of space and improve life on Earth.

“Together with NASA and the ISS National Lab, and only possible through HPE and Kioxia’s partnership, we are bringing the most powerful AI and high-performance compute capability with the greatest memory capacity to ever go into space,” said Antonio Neri, president and chief executive officer of HPE. “This significant combination will allow the international scientific community to further explore space and protect and sustain our planet.”

Neri’s vision reflects HPE’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space exploration, leveraging the power of AI and HPC to solve complex problems and enhance scientific research.

TheCUBE had a unique opportunity to provide readers with a special look inside the Spaceborne Computer launch, broadcasting live alongside HPE with special programming to detail the technology behind the Spaceborne Computer. It features a harsh-environments solution that performs edge computing feats at teraflop speeds while traveling 254 miles above Earth at 17,500 mph.

Spaceborne Computer sets new records in edge computing

This third mission, launched from Kennedy Space Center on January 30, was not just another launch, but a milestone in the partnership between HPE and Kioxia Holdings Corp. It deployed a system with 130 terabytes of storage — the largest amount of computer storage ever sent to space, according to HPE. This collaboration underscores the importance of edge computing in processing data directly in space, facilitating real-time scientific experiments and analysis.

“The first two [launches] were award-winning and extremely successful,” said Adrian Kasbergen, senior program manager at HPE. “All of us at HPE can’t wait to see what new discoveries this version of the HPE Spaceborne Computer will help unlock.”

The first launch was in 2017, while the second took place in 2021. The current mission highlights the power of collaboration and innovation. Moreover, the launch showcased the blend of cutting-edge technology and human ambition. The Spaceborne Computer project is not just about sending hardware to space; it’s a proof of concept that has successfully demonstrated the feasibility of operating unmodified, high-performance compute nodes in the harsh conditions of space.

The genesis of the supercomputer project dates back to 2014, during discussions between HPE and NASA. At that time, HPE was already providing NASA with computers for the International Space Station. However, NASA was contemplating future missions to Mars and recognized the necessity for an onboard supercomputer to support such an endeavor.

NASA asked HPE to test the resilience of their cutting-edge, unshielded, unmodified compute nodes under extreme conditions to ascertain if it could be securely mounted on a rocket and endure the intense vibrations of launch. It also needed to determine if it could withstand the journey to the ISS and then verify if astronauts could successfully install and operate it once in space.

“Spaceborne computer was a proof of concept. Can we do this? The answer is yes we can,” said Mark Fernandez, HPE’s chief scientist on the project. “With Spaceborne Computer-2, we’re bringing state-of-the-art, advanced edge computing, as well as AI capabilities to space.”

This achievement marks a significant step forward in enabling sophisticated data processing aboard the ISS, reducing the need to send data back to Earth for analysis and thereby accelerating the pace of space exploration and scientific discovery. As the mission proceeds, the international scientific community eagerly anticipates the insights and breakthroughs that the Spaceborne Computer is expected to facilitate. From understanding cosmic phenomena to enhancing capabilities for future manned missions to Mars and beyond, the potential applications are vast.

Spaceborne Computer’s achievements could also catalyze innovation across the telecom industry, leading to more robust, efficient and secure communication networks that leverage the unique advantages of space-based operations. This would not only enhance current telecom services, but also unlock new possibilities for global connectivity and data management.

TheCUBE is set to explore the continuing evolution of edge computing during our live event coverage lineup this year, including at MWC, asking leading industry experts how AI and other new breakthroughs will help expand data insights and connectivity.

“The purpose of exploration is insight. If we can use state-of-the-art edge computing and AI capabilities to bring about that insight sooner, all of humanity will benefit,” Fernandez said.

Here’s a special look at the technology and innovation behind the Spaceborne Computer launch:

Photo: HPE