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Axiom Space and Spacebilt Launching Optical Data Centers on the International Space Station

Axiom Space and Spacebilt Launching Optical Data Centers on the International Space Station
source: gettyimages
September 22, 2025

Axiom Space and Spacebilt have announced the development of optically interconnected Orbital Data Center (ODC) infrastructure for the International Space Station (ISS). The project aims to enhance in-space computing capabilities with plans to deploy two Axiom Orbital Data Center (AxODC) Nodes by the end of 2025, with a goal of at least three operational by 2027.

The initial prototype, AxDCU-1, launched onto the ISS in August, is roughly the size of a shoebox and serves primarily as a demonstrator for the concept of edge computing on-orbit. Its purpose is to validate the technology for hosting hybrid cloud systems, applications, and cloud-native workloads in space.

The more advanced AxODC Nodes will be interconnected and equipped with Optical Communication Terminals (OCTs). This setup will enable the data centers to communicate with any spacecraft or satellite fitted with compatible OCTs, significantly expanding connectivity options.

Jason Aspiotis, global director of in-space data and security at Axiom Space, highlighted the significance: "AxODC Node ISS is particularly exciting because not only are we increasing computing capacity on the space station, but we are integrating commercial optical communications terminals with the station, which gives our computing hardware connectivity to satellites in the mesh network."

Spacebilt is leading the engineering efforts and will supply its Large In-Space Servers (LiSS), which incorporate Phison enterprise-class SSDs to support the high-capacity storage needs in space.

In related advancements, SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft recently delivered new upgrades to the ISS, boosting its operation and capabilities. Meanwhile, discussions about establishing a nuclear reactor on the Moon and NASA’s evolving policies for commercial space stations continue to shape the landscape of space infrastructure.

Phison Electronics’ CEO and founder, KS Pua, emphasized the importance of space storage: “We are committed to enabling storage in space as the next data frontier. To support this launch and provide petabyte-level storage capacities, Phison is supplying Pascari enterprise SSDs for the AxODC Nodes aboard the ISS.”

However, concerns remain regarding the longevity of the ISS. Despite progress, the station is scheduled for deorbit by 2030, which could impact the deployment and operation of the data centers. Axiom Space has also announced plans to build its own space station by 2028, aiming to establish an independent platform, though details and legal jurisdictions remain unclarified as the company has yet to respond to inquiries.

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