SpaceX plans up to one million satellites to power orbital AI data center

SpaceX has filed plans with U.S. regulators to launch up to one million satellites into low-Earth orbit, aiming to create an orbital AI data center. If realized, the project would far exceed its current fleet of roughly 9,300–9,600 active satellites, part of about 14,000 in operation today. The filing provides few details on the satellites’ size or cost but notes they would orbit at 500–2,000 km and rely primarily on solar power. Astronomers have raised concerns that deploying such a massive constellation could worsen space traffic and debris. Jonathan McDowell points out that globally, as many as 1.7 million satellites have been proposed, highlighting the potential risks for collisions and interference with astronomical observations. The filing comes as SpaceX explores a public listing and potential integrations with xAI, Elon Musk’s AI venture, suggesting the satellites could play a role in broader AI infrastructure in orbit. SpaceX has not immediately commented on the plans, leaving questions about feasibility, regulatory approval, and the technical challenges of managing such an unprecedented satellite network.