Viasat Sees Opportunity in Orbital Data Center Connectivity

Satellite company focuses on communication links rather than direct deployment of space-based computing infrastructure.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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While Viasat is not planning to directly deploy orbital data centers, the company sees a significant opportunity in providing the crucial communication links needed to connect these space-based computing systems with users on Earth and other spacecraft. This positioning comes as interest in space-based computing infrastructure surges, driven by increasing demands of artificial intelligence and limitations facing terrestrial data centers.

Why it matters

The viability of orbital data centers fundamentally depends on efficient power generation and heat dissipation in space, which are significant technical challenges. Viasat's CEO highlighted concerns around sustainability and orbital debris as well, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues as the space industry explores this new frontier.

The details

SpaceX is leading the charge with ambitious plans to deploy a constellation of up to one million satellites for orbital data centers, citing the potential for near-continuous solar power in orbit to enable lower-cost computing. However, Viasat's CEO questioned whether power can be generated more cost-effectively in orbit than on Earth. Beyond technical hurdles, Viasat is also focused on its near-term growth drivers, including the rollout of its ViaSat-3 geostationary satellite program and its expansion into the direct-to-device (D2D) market through the Equatys joint venture with e& and Space42.

  • Viasat's second ViaSat-3 satellite is expected to enter service in May, providing coverage over the Americas in early 2026.
  • The Asia-focused third ViaSat-3 satellite is slated for launch in late summer.

The players

Viasat

An American satellite communications company that provides broadband internet and other communication services.

SpaceX

An American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company that is spearheading the push into orbital data centers.

Mark Dankberg

The CEO of Viasat, who discussed the company's perspective on the opportunities and challenges of orbital data centers.

Equatys

A joint venture between Viasat, e&, and Space42 focused on building infrastructure for direct-to-device satellite connectivity.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

The convergence of satellite and cellular networks is creating new opportunities for global connectivity, and developments in direct-to-device technology and spectrum allocation will be key indicators of future growth in this space.