FCC Opens Review of Elon Musk's SpaceX Plan for Orbital AI Data Centers
SpaceX has submitted a proposal to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch a non-geostationary satellite system designed to perform energy-intensive artificial intelligence (AI) computing in orbit. The plan could involve deploying up to one million data-center-style satellites to train models for xAI, Musk’s AI venture now merged with SpaceX. These satellites would use laser-based optical links, operate at altitudes between 310 and 1,240 miles, and connect with the existing Starlink network, enabling in-orbit data processing and transmission to Earth. SpaceX claims space-based AI computing could address soaring electricity demands from data centers—U.S. AI data centers already use energy comparable to the annual consumption of Pakistan—and reduce cooling and power strain on terrestrial infrastructure. The project is envisioned as a step toward advanced civilization by harnessing solar power in space. The FCC’s review has opened a public comment period and regulatory process but does not imply approval. The proposal raises concerns about regulatory, environmental, competition, and space debris issues, marking a fundamental shift from Starlink’s consumer internet services to orbital computing infrastructure.
