In brief
SpaceX has filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission to deploy one million satellites in low-Earth orbit to create cost-effective 'orbital data centres'. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance AI processing capabilities while addressing concerns about space congestion and environmental impact.
Elon Musk's SpaceX has applied to launch one million satellites into Earth's orbit to power artificial intelligence (AI). The application claims orbital data centres are the most cost and energy-efficient way to meet the growing demand for AI computing power.
Traditionally, such centres are large warehouses full of powerful computers that process and store data. Musk's aerospace firm claims processing needs due to the expanding use of AI are already outpacing terrestrial capabilities. The proposed network would drastically increase the number of SpaceX satellites in orbit, building on an existing Starlink network of nearly 10,000 satellites that has faced allegations of creating space congestion, which Musk vehemently denies.
The new network could comprise up to one million solar-powered satellites, according to the application filed on Friday with the Federal Communications Commission, which does not specify a timeline for the plan. SpaceX argues that the system would provide the computing capacity necessary to serve billions of users globally and marks the initial step to achieving a Kardashev II-level civilization—one that harnesses solar power in full.
Musk, sharing on social media platform X, stated: The satellites will actually be so far apart that it will be hard to see from one to another. Space is so vast as to be beyond comprehension. Much like the Starlink satellites, intended for high-speed internet, these satellites are planned to operate in low-Earth orbit, ranging from 500-2,000km (310-1,242 miles) in altitude.
SpaceX professes that the orbital data centres would be a greener alternative to traditional centres, which typically require significant amounts of power and water for cooling. However, experts point out that launching hardware into orbit remains costly and complex, with rising space debris increasing risks of collisions among satellites.
In the past, astronomers voiced concern that radio waves emitted by the Starlink network were blinding their telescopes, affecting scientific research. Musk has previously refuted claims that his satellites crowd out competitors, asserting that the expansive nature of space mitigates such issues.
