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In the vast expanse of space, where radiation reigns and microgravity poses unique challenges, placing a computer might seem counterintuitive. Yet, the International Space Station (ISS) is home to numerous computers, each playing a pivotal role in space research and exploration. But how do these computers survive in such an inhospitable environment? Let's embark on a journey to uncover the secrets behind the Spaceborne server, the ISS's unlikely hero.
Have you ever pondered why no one attempted to install a server on the ISS before? The answer lies in the harsh conditions that computers must endure. Between extreme constraints on power and cooling, not to mention the relentless radiation and microgravity, space is the last place you'd expect a computer to thrive. Yet, the ISS regularly receives shipments of laptops, only for them to be "absolutely destroyed" upon use.
In 2017, NASA, HP Enterprise, and Kioxia joined forces to create Spaceborne One, the first edge computing server designed to operate for an extended period on the ISS. Despite some initial challenges, such as radiation-related failures in the SSDs, the mission was deemed a success. This led to the development of Spaceborne 2, which aimed to explore practical applications for on-station computing, particularly data analysis using AI.
The new Spaceborne 2 server boasts an impressive 130 terabytes of storage, a feat achieved through innovative design and optimization. But where does one install such a庞大 storage system in the confines of the ISS? As we shall see, the answer lies in the unique challenges and solutions that come with operating in space.
To understand the need for edge computing on the ISS, let's consider a practical use case: astronaut safety during spacewalks. The EVA gloves worn by crew members are prone to damage, and to ensure their integrity, NASA requires hundreds of photographs to be taken and analyzed using machine learning. With traditional methods, this data transfer would take five days. Enter Spaceborne 2, which reduces this time to a mere 45 seconds, freeing up valuable network bandwidth for other critical tasks.
The journey to installing a server on the ISS was not without its hurdles. From surviving the intense vibrations of launch to enduring the acoustic chamber test and the white glove test, each piece of equipment must pass rigorous evaluations. But the team behind Spaceborne 2 rose to the challenge, selecting standard HP Enterprise systems and optimizing them for space.
One of the key innovations in Spaceborne 2 is the elimination of super capacitors in the SSDs, making them resilient to radiation. The choice of SAS interface drives over NVMe for high-speed bulk storage highlights the importance of balancing performance, reliability, and power efficiency in the unique environment of the ISS.
Cooling is a critical consideration in space, where traditional methods of heat dissipation are ineffective. Spaceborne 2 employs a combination of air and water cooling, with the latter being a novel approach in the near-vacuum of space. This dual-cooling system allows for the removal of approximately 400 watts of heat from each locker, ensuring the servers remain operational.
Networking in space presents its own set of challenges. Spaceborne 2 features four standard RJ45 ports, but the network cables themselves are military-grade, designed to withstand the harsh conditions of space. The ISS's internet relay, located in geosynchronous orbit, adds to the complexity, resulting in variable connectivity and ping times.
As we continue to learn from the Spaceborne project, the potential applications for on-station computing are vast. From hardware RAID cards to software RAID, each innovation brings us closer to unlocking the full potential of computing in space.
In conclusion, the Spaceborne server's journey from conception to deployment on the ISS is a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. As we explore the final frontier, the lessons learned from this unlikely hero will undoubtedly pave the way for future advancements in space technology.
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