Google Cloud has signed a deal with SpaceX to connect its Starlink internet constellation to Google’s cloud services. Under the deal, Google has announced that SpaceX will locate Starlink ground stations within Google data centre properties and connect Starlink to Google Cloud’s infrastructure. 

Google Cloud’s private network will support Starlink internet service to business and consumers. Google said that this combination will support public sector agencies and businesses working at the network edge, or those operating in rural or remote areas, to use cloud applications, or to cloud services like analytics, artificial intelligence or machine learning. 

The collaboration also plans to bring in emerging cloud services – such as artificial intelligence and machine learning – to make decisions about what parts of a dataset should be sent to Earth; these computer services could reduce bandwidth needs. SpaceX's target market for customers are those who work in rural areas where internet speed is often diminished or where no reliable internet is available.