Google Launches Satellite Because Earth Isn't Big Enough

Google Research has officially sent its Project Suncatcher prototype satellite into orbit, hitching a ride on a SpaceX Transporter-18 mission alongside partner Planet. Because terrestrial data collection apparently leaves room for improvement, the tech giant is now looking upward for its next trick.

• Project Suncatcher represents Google Research moving physical infrastructure into low Earth orbit for experimental tracking.
• The hardware arrived in space via a SpaceX rideshare, proving that everyone shares the same orbital highway.
• Partner Planet brings established earth-imaging chops to whatever algorithmic surveillance Google has planned next.

Why should I care? Could be big
Because everyone needs a satellite now, and Google's low Earth orbit experiments usually end up affecting your workflow eventually.

Read the original: Our Project Suncatcher prototype satellite is in orbit.