TAS #3

As the demand for data processing and real-time analytics grows, traditional Earth-based data centers struggle to meet the needs of satellite constellations and other space infrastructures. Latency, bandwidth constraints, and the inefficiency of transmitting massive amounts of data back to Earth can limit the effectiveness of space missions. Edge computing in space — processing data closer to the source — presents an opportunity to solve these challenges. By utilizing the power of processors already in orbit, satellites could become more autonomous and responsive, with the capacity to manage and process data locally before sending only critical information to Earth.

What if space could host its own data centers, utilizing satellites as edge computing nodes? Imagine a system of decentralized, modular processing hubs in orbit, where data is stored, analyzed, and transmitted locally, reducing latency and bandwidth needs. How could these space-based data centers be designed? What innovative technologies would be required to integrate computing power seamlessly across multiple satellites? Think about energy efficiency, hardware modularity, scalability, and security. Crucially, propose the business dimension: what are the most promising applications of orbital edge computing, who would pay for such a service, and which revenue model (SaaS, data processing, cloud services, etc.) could sustain it over time?