China advances space-based computing as orbital data centres emerge as next frontier of digital economy

China is accelerating the development of space-based computing technologies, positioning orbital data processing as a key component of future digital infrastructure and a potential driver of a new trillion-dollar space economy, as reported by Global Times, a partner of TV BRICS.

The country's first large-scale computing satellite constellation has demonstrated significant progress in processing data directly in orbit, reflecting a broader shift towards decentralised computing systems designed to meet the rapidly growing global demand for artificial intelligence and high-performance data services.

Unlike traditional satellite networks that primarily transmit information back to Earth for processing, space-based computing systems analyse data directly in orbit and send only essential results to ground stations. Experts believe this approach can significantly reduce transmission requirements, improve efficiency and enable faster decision-making in applications ranging from weather forecasting to environmental monitoring.

The technology is already showing practical potential. Advanced meteorological models operating through orbital computing networks are capable of processing vast volumes of atmospheric data and generating long-range forecasts within minutes. Similar systems are expected to support disaster management, precision agriculture, climate monitoring and natural resource management.

Industry analysts predict that the global market for space-computing services could exceed US$1 trillion by 2035, creating new opportunities across satellite manufacturing, launch services, data infrastructure and digital applications. The sector is increasingly being viewed as a cornerstone of the emerging space economy.

The country has also made advances in on-orbit artificial intelligence applications, demonstrating the ability to run sophisticated AI models in space and enabling new forms of autonomous data analysis. Researchers believe such capabilities could eventually support intelligent satellite networks capable of responding to events in real time without relying on constant communication with Earth.

Experts point out that the emergence of orbital computing represents a new phase in the evolution of the global digital economy. By combining artificial intelligence, satellite technology and advanced communications systems, space-based computing networks have the potential to transform how information is processed, distributed and utilised across multiple sectors.