Space Computing: Architectures, Challenges, and Future Directions

In recent years, the rapid advancement of space technologies has given rise to sophisticated space computing systems, which have become crucial for various applications such as Earth observation, communication, and scientific research. This survey paper provides a comprehensive overview of the history, current state, and future trends in space computing systems. We discuss the evolution of these systems, highlighting important milestones from early satellite communication networks to modern space–air–ground integrated networks (SAGIN). Despite their advancements, space computing systems face numerous challenges, including resource constraints and unstable network links. To address these challenges, we explore key enabling technologies that are critical for the future of space computing. These include virtualization and resource pooling, which enhance resource utilization; distributed storage, which provides resilience and efficiency; advanced scheduling and orchestration techniques, which optimize task allocation across heterogeneous resources; collaborative AI training and inference, which leverage distributed satellite networks for real-time data processing; and robust security and privacy measures, which are vital for safeguarding sensitive information in space operations. By examining existing systems and identifying open research challenges, this paper aims to provide a road map for future research and development in the field of space computing systems. Our findings highlight the potential of emerging technologies to transform space operations and underscore the importance of continued innovation in overcoming current limitations.