HPE is sending a new server into space to the International Space Station

An improved version of Spaceborne Computer-2 will depart for the International Space Station this week with additional flash memory to measure the long-term impact of memory in space.

HPE has been experimenting with space servers through NASA for some time and sent its first unit to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2017. Despite some software issues, the test was successful, and Spaceborne Computer-2 then took to the light (and space) in 2021. Now an updated version of this server is being sent to the International Space Station.

The most important thing about each unit is that it consists of standard components that anyone can order. The combined rack houses EdgeLine and Proliant servers. Initially, NASA supplied its own transformers to provide the system with alternating power. In 2021, the switch to DC power was made and hardware and software configurations around RAID were added.

In the enhanced version of Spaceborne Computer-2, HPE is now adding additional flash storage to explore long-term storage and recovery in space. NASA wants to know what is possible in the future of Moon and Mars missions.

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He spoke with Mark Fernandez, the person in charge of the project Record. “The space laptop has the potential to not only accelerate data processing in space, but also accelerate the exchange of data insights between Earth and space. I hope the additional power will also enhance the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning on the International Space Station.”