Payloads demonstrate the company's first stage for Compute-as-a-Service in orbit

Belgian AI computing company EDGX has successfully deployed the first in-orbit payloads for its Sterna high-performance data processing unit (DPU).

The launch was the first demonstration of Sterna, which the company describes as an AI-powered Edge computer for satellite constellations that enables real-time data processing directly in space. The payloads were delivered aboard SpaceX's Transporter-16 mission.

EDGX

Sterna uses Nvidia's Jetson Orin NX, a high-performance system-on-module designed for Edge AI, robotics, and autonomous machines.

EDGX said Sterna is engineered for "real in-orbit constraints," with the ability to dynamically scale power between 10W and 45W, enabling continuous data processing under changing power and thermal conditions. The company said Sterna was designed for the long-term, targeting an operational lifetime of seven years in orbit.

"This launch marks a key milestone for EDGX and for Europe's position in space-based computing. By bringing high-performance compute directly into orbit, we're enabling satellites to move from data collection platforms to real-time decision-making systems. Our focus is simple: deliver reliable, scalable compute infrastructure in space, and this mission is the first step," EDGX CEO Nick Destrycker said.

"We believe the next phase of the space industry will be defined by compute in orbit. This mission is the first step in building that infrastructure, turning satellites into intelligent, software-defined systems capable of processing data where it is generated. EDGX is building the compute layer of the space economy."

Last year, EDGX secured $2.6 million in a seed round for Sterna and simultaneously secured a $1.2m commercial contract with an "anchor" customer.

EDGX said it is building a new operational model for Compute-as-a-Service in orbit, laying the groundwork for future space-based data centers and scalable orbital computing infrastructure.

The company is attempting to position itself as a leader in Europe on space-based data centers, and has funding from the venture capital fund imec.istart, imec Future Fund, and PMV, as well as support from the European Space Agency, European Commission, and the Belgian Ministry of Defense.

EDGX launches Sterna satellite payloads on SpaceX Transporter-16