China’s Three-Body Computing Constellation, launched in May 2025, deployed 12 AI-powered satellites for real-time data processing in orbit. With plans to scale up to 2,800 satellites under the broader “Star Compute” program, this initiative promises breakthroughs in Earth observation, science, and sustainability—reshaping global space technology.
On May 14, 2025, China made history by launching the first 12 satellites of the Three-Body Computing Constellation, part of its “Star Compute” program, led by ADA Space (Guoxing Aerospace) in collaboration with Zhejiang Lab and Neijiang High-Tech Zone. Named metaphorically after Liu Cixin’s science fiction novel The Three-Body Problem, this constellation aims to build the first space-based AI supercomputing network.
By embedding advanced artificial intelligence (AI) models and high-speed inter-satellite laser links into orbit, China is pioneering real-time orbital edge computing—impacting environmental monitoring, astrophysics, and digital infrastructure. As of May 25, 2025, this initiative propels China to the cutting edge of next-gen space innovation.
Technical Marvels of the Three-Body Constellation
The first batch of 12 satellites launched via a Long March 2D rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. Each satellite carries a large AI model with 8 billion parameters, capable of 744 TOPS (tera operations per second). Together, they achieve 5 POPS (peta operations per second).
Backed by 30 terabytes of shared onboard storage and 100 Gbps laser communication links, these satellites perform on-orbit edge computing—minimizing dependence on ground stations. Unlike traditional systems that beam raw data back to Earth, this constellation processes data in space, reducing transmission needs and latency. Notably, only 10% of raw satellite data traditionally reaches Earth due to bandwidth limits—this system tackles that bottleneck.
China’s roadmap includes expanding the network to 2,800 satellites by 2030, aiming to deliver 1,000 POPS, rivaling terrestrial supercomputers like Frontier or Fugaku.
Applications Transforming Earth and Beyond
The constellation’s architecture unlocks critical applications:
Earth Observation
Real-time image processing empowers rapid disaster response, infrastructure monitoring, and 3D digital twin creation—useful for everything from flood modeling to urban planning.
Scientific Research
Satellites equipped with X-ray polarization instruments can detect gamma-ray bursts and cosmic phenomena, speeding up astrophysical data analysis significantly.
Commercial Potential
Digital twins derived from space imagery can revolutionize precision agriculture, virtual tourism, logistics, and immersive gaming, where real-time data enriches user interaction.
Strategic Operations
By functioning independently of ground control, these satellites offer strategic advantages in military reconnaissance, secure communications, and resilience during terrestrial disruptions.
Environmentally, these AI-powered satellites leverage solar energy and space’s natural cooling—addressing the energy-intensive nature of traditional Earth-bound data centers.
China’s Strategic Vision in Space
The Three-Body constellation aligns with China’s 25-year space strategy, announced in 2024. Alongside lunar missions and asteroid exploration (e.g., Tianwen-2), China’s commercial space sector—including over 500 space tech firms—has emerged as a serious contender against U.S. dominance.
The constellation complements broadband initiatives like Qianfan (Thousand Sails), targeting a dual approach: SpaceX’s Starlink focuses on global connectivity, while Three-Body focuses on orbital computing.
However, recent reports of satellite maneuver tests in 2024—described as “dogfighting” drills by U.S. Space Force officials—raise eyebrows regarding potential defense applications, intensifying global scrutiny.
Global Implications and Challenges
This orbital supercomputer constellation could dramatically shift the future of edge computing, environmental sustainability, and geopolitics. But several challenges loom:
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Scalability: Scaling to 2,800 satellites will demand extraordinary launch capacity, supply chains, and funding—despite China’s high launch cadence.
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Geopolitical Risks: Military implications and anti-satellite weapon development could escalate space militarization.
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Orbital Congestion: The LEO environment is already crowded. Adding thousands of satellites raises the risk of space debris and collision chains.
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Ethical AI in Orbit: Autonomous satellite decisions raise privacy, safety, and AI accountability questions, especially in dual-use scenarios.
The Future of Space-Based Computing
As of May 2025, China’s Three-Body constellation is still in its early deployment phase—but the direction is clear. If the full 2,800-satellite network is realized, it could become the backbone of orbital AI infrastructure, powering breakthroughs in science, defense, and enterprise.
China’s adjacent projects—like quantum communication satellites and planetary missions—reflect a holistic approach to space leadership. Meanwhile, U.S. efforts via Space Force, NASA partnerships, and private firms are intensifying. Europe, too, is entering the fray with edge computing satellite concepts.
What began as sci-fi metaphor is quickly becoming a strategic reality.
China’s Three-Body Computing Constellation, launched in May 2025, is more than a technological marvel—it’s a glimpse into the next frontier of AI and computing. By deploying powerful AI satellites capable of processing data in space, China aims to leapfrog traditional infrastructure, reshaping how humanity explores, analyzes, and operates in orbit.
As the constellation scales, it could redefine sustainability, industry, and national power in the age of AI. The race is on—and space just became the cloud.