Forget rockets — Longshot wants to fire cargo into space from a gun. See it at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026

Longshot's ambitious plan to launch cargo into space using a massive gun instead of traditional rockets has sparked interest in the tech industry. This approach, if successful, could significantly reduce the cost of sending payloads into space, making it more viable for companies to deploy space-based infrastructure such as data centers. The current high costs associated with rocket launches are a major barrier to the development of space-based services, so a gun-based launch system could be a game-changer.

The concept of space data centers is particularly intriguing, as it could enable companies to store and process data in orbit, potentially reducing latency and increasing security. With the growing demand for cloud computing and data storage, the idea of taking these services to space could become increasingly appealing. However, there are many technical challenges that Longshot will need to overcome to make this vision a reality, including developing a gun capable of propelling payloads to orbital velocities and ensuring the structural integrity of the cargo.

At TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, Longshot will likely provide more details on its progress and plans for the gun-based launch system. Industry watchers will be keen to learn more about the technical specifications of the system, the expected costs per launch, and the timeline for deployment. As the space industry continues to evolve, it's clear that innovative approaches like Longshot's will be crucial in driving progress and enabling new use cases. Keep an eye on Longshot's developments and the emerging market for space-based infrastructure.

Originally reported by techcrunch.com. TechNews adds analysis for technology readers.