Ask Onix
SpaceX files application for massive satellite network
Elon Musk's aerospace company, SpaceX, has submitted a proposal to the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch up to one million satellites into low-Earth orbit, aiming to create orbital data centres to support artificial intelligence (AI) computing demands.
Driving the need for orbital data centres
SpaceX argues that traditional terrestrial data centres-large warehouses filled with high-performance computers-are struggling to keep pace with the exponential growth in AI-driven processing requirements. The company claims that placing data centres in orbit would offer a more cost-effective and energy-efficient solution to meet global demand.
According to the application, the proposed network would serve "billions of users" and could mark a step toward achieving a Kardashev II-level civilisation, a theoretical concept introduced by astronomer Nikolai Kardashev in the 1960s, describing a society capable of harnessing the full energy output of its star.
Expanding the Starlink network
SpaceX's existing Starlink constellation, which provides high-speed internet via nearly 10,000 satellites, has already faced criticism for contributing to orbital congestion. The company disputes these claims, with Musk stating on social media platform X that the new satellites would be spaced so widely that "it will be hard to see from one to another."
The proposed satellites would operate in low-Earth orbit, between 500 and 2,000 kilometres (310 to 1,242 miles) above the planet, similar to the current Starlink fleet.
Environmental and technical challenges
SpaceX asserts that orbital data centres would be a more sustainable alternative to ground-based facilities, which consume vast amounts of electricity and water for cooling. However, experts have raised concerns about the feasibility of such a system.
Launching hardware into space remains costly, and maintaining orbital infrastructure-including protection, cooling, and power supply-presents significant engineering challenges. Additionally, the growing volume of space debris increases the risk of collisions, which could damage satellites or send debris re-entering Earth's atmosphere.
Criticism from astronomers and competitors
Astronomers have previously voiced concerns that radio waves emitted by Starlink satellites interfere with telescopic observations, effectively "blinding" their instruments. In 2024, researchers warned that the expanding number of low-orbit satellites could further disrupt scientific research.
Musk has dismissed accusations that SpaceX's satellites are monopolising orbital space or crowding out competitors, though the new proposal would significantly expand the company's presence in low-Earth orbit.
Timeline and next steps
The FCC filing does not specify a timeline for the project, leaving its implementation uncertain. The proposal will likely undergo regulatory review, during which technical, environmental, and safety considerations will be assessed.
