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.
This initiative would increase SpaceX's current network of nearly 10,000 satellites, which has faced criticism for contributing to space congestion—a claim Musk disputes.
The new network could comprise up to one million solar-powered satellites, according to the application filed on Friday with the Federal Communications Commission, although no timeline has been specified for the rollout.
SpaceX suggests that this system would deliver the computing capacity required to serve billions of users globally while taking a step towards becoming a Kardashev II-level civilization, capable of harnessing the Sun's full power.
Musk conveyed on his platform X that the satellites will be spaced far apart, reducing visibility issues in the vastness of space.
Like the existing Starlink satellites, these would operate in low-Earth orbit at altitudes ranging from 500-2,000km (310-1,242 miles).
SpaceX argues that these orbital data centres would provide a greener alternative to current data centres that require considerable energy and water for cooling.
However, experts have noted that the expenses related to launching equipment into orbit remain high and the complexities of maintaining power and cooling for the facilities pose challenges. Moreover, increasing low-orbit spacecraft raises concerns about potential collisions in space, which could damage satellites and risk debris falling back to Earth.
In 2024, astronomers expressed grievances about interference caused by the radio waves from the Starlink network, which impacted observational studies.
Musk has previously denied claims that his satellites overcrowd the orbital space and stifle competition.
