K2 launches its powerful Gravitas satellite this month to demonstrate space data center technology for orbit
The company called K2 raised $450 million and people think it’s worth $3 billion. The satellite is heavy – two tons. Its solar wings spread 40 meters wide when opened.
Most satellites in space make only a little electricity. Even big ones now can make 25 kW. This one can make 20 kW. The company wants to build what they call “data centers in space.”
The satellite will carry twelve secret devices from different customers. It also has a strong engine – maybe the strongest ever used in space. The company wants to see what happens when they use this engine to move the satellite higher.
The brothers say power is important now. With more power, satellites can send stronger signals. They can also process more information while in space. But big satellites cost a lot to launch.
The company is waiting for really big rockets from SpaceX. These rockets might make sending heavy things to space cheaper. The brothers have plans for even bigger satellites ready – one can make 100 kW of power.
They say their satellites are cheaper than old-style satellites but more powerful than smaller ones. The company hopes to launch eleven more in two years. By 2028, they want to make custom satellites for many customers.