Elon Musk's SpaceX has applied to launch one million satellites into Earth's orbit to power artificial intelligence (AI). The application claims that '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. But Musk's aerospace firm claims processing needs due to the expanding use of AI are already outpacing 'terrestrial capabilities'. They would join its Starlink network in orbit, which provides high-speed internet via thousands of small satellites - and which have been accused of creating congestion in space, something Musk 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 claims the system would deliver the computer capacity required to serve 'billions of users globally'.
It also says it would be the first step towards 'becoming a Kardashev II-level civilisation - one that can harness the Sun's full power', referencing a scale of hypothetical alien societies proposed by an astronomer in the 1960s. Musk wrote on his social media site, '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.'
Like the Starlink satellites, they would operate in low-Earth orbit at altitudes from 500-2,000 km (310-1,242 miles). SpaceX claims these 'orbital data centres' would be a greener alternative to traditional centres, which require enormous amounts of power and water for cooling. However, experts warn that launching hardware into orbit is expensive and complex, and more satellites increase the risk of collisions in space. Astronomers have also raised concerns about radio interference from the Starlink network affecting their research. Despite criticisms, Musk believes there’s enough space for all his satellites.
Traditionally, such centres are large warehouses full of powerful computers which process and store data. But Musk's aerospace firm claims processing needs due to the expanding use of AI are already outpacing 'terrestrial capabilities'. They would join its Starlink network in orbit, which provides high-speed internet via thousands of small satellites - and which have been accused of creating congestion in space, something Musk 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 claims the system would deliver the computer capacity required to serve 'billions of users globally'.
It also says it would be the first step towards 'becoming a Kardashev II-level civilisation - one that can harness the Sun's full power', referencing a scale of hypothetical alien societies proposed by an astronomer in the 1960s. Musk wrote on his social media site, '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.'
Like the Starlink satellites, they would operate in low-Earth orbit at altitudes from 500-2,000 km (310-1,242 miles). SpaceX claims these 'orbital data centres' would be a greener alternative to traditional centres, which require enormous amounts of power and water for cooling. However, experts warn that launching hardware into orbit is expensive and complex, and more satellites increase the risk of collisions in space. Astronomers have also raised concerns about radio interference from the Starlink network affecting their research. Despite criticisms, Musk believes there’s enough space for all his satellites.
