SpaceX's Bold Ambition: Launching One Million AI-Powered Satellites

Sun Feb 01 2026 06:52:46 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Elon Musk's SpaceX has submitted an ambitious application to launch one million satellites into orbit, aiming to create orbital data centers to support the burgeoning demand for AI computing power.

SpaceX has applied for permission to launch up to one million satellites capable of providing AI computing power in orbit. The company argues that these 'orbital data centers' offer a more energy-efficient alternative compared to traditional data centers. The plan could significantly enhance their existing Starlink network, although it raises concerns regarding 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 which process and store data. Musk's aerospace firm claims processing needs due to the expanding use of AI are already outpacing terrestrial capabilities.

This new initiative would drastically increase the number of SpaceX satellites in orbit, beyond the nearly 10,000 already part of its existing Starlink network. Critics believe this expansion could create congestion in space, a concern that Musk has dismissed.

The plan, filed recently with the Federal Communications Commission, does not specify a timeline for implementation but suggests a network of up to one million solar-powered satellites.

SpaceX asserts that this system would deliver the computer capacity required to serve billions of users globally and represent a step towards achieving a Kardashev II civilization, capable of harnessing the Sun's complete energy potential.

Musk stated on social media that the satellites would be positioned far apart, making them difficult to see from one another. Like the Starlink satellites, they would operate in low-Earth orbit at altitudes between 500 and 2,000 kilometers.

SpaceX argues that these orbital data centres would provide a greener alternative to traditional centers that require significant power for operations and cooling.

However, experts point out that despite their potential benefits, launching hardware into orbit remains an expensive venture, with complex infrastructure required for protection, cooling, and powering the satellites. The increasing number of low-orbit satellites also raises the risk of collisions, a concern echoed by astronomers who have noted the interference of Starlink satellites with their observations.

Musk has previously rejected claims that his satellites contribute to overcrowding in space, arguing for the vastness of the orbital environment.