SPACE: Musk’s SpaceX applies to launch a million satellites into orbit.
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”.
It would increase the number of SpaceX satellites in orbit drastically. Its existing Starlink network of nearly 10,000 satellites has already been accused of creating congestion in space, which Musk denies.
The new network could comprise up to one million solar-powered satellites, according to the application filed on Friday with the US 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”.
I’m trying to imagine the earthbound infrastructure to make that happen.