Elon Musk Hints at Space Data Centers by SpaceX
SpaceX plans to develop data centers in orbit using its future Starlink V3 satellites, according to CEO Elon Musk. While he has announced the vision, specific timelines and project scale remain vague.
Scaling Starlink for Space Computing
Musk explained that the next-generation V3 Starlink satellites could form the foundation for space-based data centers if scaled up properly. These satellites include high-speed laser links and are designed to deliver gigabit-class Internet connectivity.
"Simply scaling up Starlink V3 satellites, which have high speed laser links, would work. SpaceX will be doing this."
The V3 satellites are expected to launch aboard Starship, SpaceX's upcoming heavy-lift rocket currently in the prototype phase. Each Starship flight could deploy dozens of these satellites, with early operations tentatively aimed for 2026.
Energy Ambitions and Future Outlook
Discussing broader space capabilities, Musk noted the potential for Starship to deliver vast amounts of solar power infrastructure into orbit.
"Starship could deliver 100GW per year to high Earth orbit within four to five years if we can solve the other parts of the equation. 100TW per year is possible from a lunar base producing solar-powered AI satellites locally and accelerating them to escape velocity with a mass driver."
Musk is known for ambitious forecasts that often face long delays or downsizing. Past projects have seen major scope changes or missed deployment targets altogether.
Industry Parallels
This new proposal mirrors visionary pitches from other space-oriented billionaires such as Jeff Bezos and Eric Schmidt, who have also speculated on the future of orbital computing infrastructure.
Author’s Summary: Elon Musk envisions scaling SpaceX’s Starlink V3 satellites into orbital data centers, proposing massive solar capacity from space while facing skepticism over his ambitious timelines.