— Axiom Space eyes the moon while continuing to dream big in Earth orbit Axiom Space has previously tested a demonstration payload based on Amazon Web Services' mini edge computer Snowcone at the International Space Station. In March, Axiom announced it would launch a larger edge computer, the Data Center Unit-1 (AxDCU-1), to the space station in the coming months. The AxDCU-1 payload will help the company test hardware and software before the deployment of the ODCs. "ODC Nodes 1 and 2 are an acceleration of our plans to deploy a multitude of free-flyer ODC nodes in low Earth orbit to meet the rapidly emerging demand from users around the world," Jason Aspiotis, global director of in-space data and security at Axiom Space, said in the statement. The ODCs will be connected via high-speed 2.5 Gbps laser links to the other satellites of the Kepler Communications constellations, as well to data centers on Earth. Before orbital data centers can take off in a big way, technologists must make sure that the technology can withstand the harsh environment of space, especially the strong radiation that frequently shortens the lifespan of electronic devices. Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: community@space.com.