HPE to Launch AI Computer to the Moon in Late

HPE plans to launch artificial intelligence on the lunar surface by the end of 2026. The Spaceborne Computer 4 onboard computer will travel to space aboard the FLIP rover developed by Astrolab.

The mission is being implemented under NASA's CLPS program. The half-ton rover will deliver the Griffin-1 lander to the Moon's south pole, which will be placed into orbit by a Falcon Heavy launch vehicle.

The device measures 13x25 cm and is equipped with a processor, a graphics accelerator, and two Kioxia mirror drives with 1 TB capacity each. The manufacturer refuses to disclose the chip name due to the risky nature of the mission.

The FLIP rover will operate on the lunar surface for approximately one year. During this time, it will perform several key tasks.

• Processing data from onboard cameras and lidars
• Running a language model with RAG to search documentation for information
• Running HPL and HPCG benchmarks for potential inclusion in the TOP500 ranking

To protect against radiation, a software method is used: free CPU cycles monitor hardware status and reduce frequency or shut down the system if deviations occur. Heavy computations also serve to heat the rover during the long lunar night.

Partial funding for the mission comes from advertising. A projector installed on the rover displays partner logos on the lunar soil.