Starcloud Orders Over 50 Starlink Laser Terminals for 88,000-Satellite Orbital Data Center Network
June 2, 2026
Starcloud Orders Over 50 Starlink Laser Terminals for 88,000-Satellite Orbital Data Center Network
Starcloud, a company specializing in space-based computing infrastructure, has placed an order for more than 50 inter-satellite laser terminals from SpaceX’s Starlink division. The deal marks a significant step in Starcloud’s ambitious plan to build a network of orbital data centers supported by a constellation of 88,000 satellites. The laser terminals, designed for high-speed optical communication between satellites, are critical for enabling low-latency data transfer and real-time processing in space.
The procurement underscores a growing convergence between satellite communications and edge computing. By integrating Starlink’s laser technology, Starcloud aims to create a mesh network in low Earth orbit that can process and route data without relying on ground stations. The company has not disclosed the financial terms of the order, but industry analysts note that the scale of the planned satellite fleet far exceeds any existing mega-constellation, including Starlink’s own current deployment of roughly 6,000 operational satellites. Each of the 50-plus laser terminals will be capable of transmitting data at speeds of up to 100 Gbps, Starcloud said in a statement, adding that the technology will form the backbone of its orbital data center network.
The network is intended to support applications ranging from cloud computing and AI inference to disaster response and military communications. Starcloud’s vision involves deploying modular data centers in orbit, each equipped with servers and storage units that can be upgraded or replaced via robotic maintenance. The company has previously secured funding from venture capital firms focused on space infrastructure and has partnered with several satellite manufacturers. The laser terminal order with Starlink is one of the largest commercial agreements for inter-satellite links to date, signaling that the space-based data center market is moving from concept to procurement.
Industry experts view this development as a potential shift in how data is processed globally. By moving compute closer to the source of data generation—such as IoT sensors, autonomous vehicles, and remote industrial sites—orbital data centers could reduce latency compared to traditional cloud data centers located on Earth. However, challenges remain, including the high cost of launching and maintaining hardware in space, as well as regulatory hurdles related to spectrum allocation and orbital debris. Starcloud has stated that it plans to begin deploying the first wave of satellites within the next three years, with the full constellation expected to be operational by the early 2030s. The company also noted that the laser terminals will be tested in a series of demonstration missions scheduled for late 2026.
Source: datacenterdynamics
