Axiom Space and Red Hat have announced a strategic collaboration to bring data processing to space with the deployment of Red Hat Device Edge on the International Space Station (ISS). This alliance seeks to optimize computing infrastructure in orbit and accelerate the development of orbital data centers (ODC) that will enable more efficient data analysis without relying on terrestrial connections.
A data center on the International Space Station
The project will materialize with the launch of AxDCU-1 , the first unit of the Axiom Space Data Center, scheduled for spring 2025. This system will integrate edge computing technology to process information in real time directly in space. This will reduce latency and ensure faster and safer decision-making for space missions and critical applications.
Red Hat Device Edge , which combines MicroShift (light version of Kubernetes), Red Hat OpenShift, and Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform, will enable hybrid cloud applications to run on the ISS. This will enable artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) processes, improving responsiveness to space events and strengthening space cybersecurity.
Benefits for industry and research
With this advancement, Axiom Space plans to reduce reliance on ground-based data centers by providing storage and processing in orbit, which will benefit areas such as:
- Earth observation with lower latency.
- Training AI/ML models in space.
- Advanced computer security for space missions.
- Backup and recovery of data in critical infrastructures.
The launch of AxDCU-1 represents a key step in Axiom Space’s strategy to build a commercial space station with advanced technological capabilities. This project marks the beginning of an era where in-orbit data processing will be a reality for companies, researchers and space agencies.
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Source: Axiom Space
Photo: shutterstock
