Kamal Ghorui
Elon Musk’s SpaceX is reportedly planning to harness solar power for AI data centres floating above Earth, which seems like science fiction, yet the company filed a proposal with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), signalling serious intent.As reported by Reuters, just days after reports surfaced of a potential merger between Musk’s xAI and SpaceX, the plan hints at bigger ambitions. AI needs huge amounts of computing power. Musk apparently wants to flip that model, using sunlight as fuel while orbiting the planet.
Elon Musk’s SpaceX plans to power AI from orbit; here’s how it may work
Each satellite would capture solar energy, constant, near-uninterrupted sunlight at orbital altitude. Experts say that could dramatically cut power costs, with low maintenance and high efficiency. According to SpaceX’s FCC filing, these satellites would reduce the environmental footprint compared to Earth-based AI data centres with one million satellites. Only 15,000 satellites currently orbit the Earth, as reported. But analysts note that filing for higher numbers isn’t unusual. SpaceX previously sought approval for 42,000 Starlink satellites before actual deployment. The current Starlink network has roughly 9,500 satellites in space. Starship is designed to carry massive payloads into orbit at lower costs.
Why SpaceX is aiming high in the AI race
Since AI is booming, data centres are the backbone. SpaceX’s move isn’t just about satellites. It’s about staking a claim in AI infrastructure. xAI and SpaceX merging might amplify the strategy. Musk reportedly wants a system that’s fast, green, and scalable.The FCC approval is not guaranteed. But if approved and deployed, the project could shift how AI computing is done.
