[57924] AI developments, space ambitions and strategic changes in defense industries

Space and AI technologies

According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Google is in talks with SpaceX to develop and deploy data centers in Earth's orbit as part of the "Suncatcher" project. The venture, which is expected to roll out its first prototypes by 2027, is intended to reduce dependence on energy-intensive ground infrastructure. However, IZ.RU cites TechCrunch estimates that the cost of building a 1-gigawatt facility could reach $42 billion, a price three times higher than building it on the ground.

At the same time, FSCP reports that Amazon employees, who are under strict organizational requirements to integrate AI tools, have developed a "secret technique for simulating activity" to meet internal metrics. According to the report, employees perform useless tasks for the "MeshClaw" AI agent just to prove compliance with usage targets, a phenomenon described in the article as one that harms organizational efficiency.

Space and defense updates

Техасский Вестник reports that the 12th launch of SpaceX's Starship is scheduled for May 19. This involves the new V3 model, which will include advanced systems and deployment tests for 22 Starlink V3 satellites, while conducting durability tests on the spacecraft's heat shield.

In the military sector, Colonelcassad notes that India has decided to freeze the development of the BrahMos-II hypersonic missile. The source explains that this is a "cold-headed decision," as the cost of a single hypersonic missile reaches $12 million – a price that allows for the purchase of several supersonic missiles that are effective enough to overcome air defense systems, as proven in 2025.