SpaceX announced a new plan to construct an AI data center on Monday, while also confirming it is proceeding as scheduled with the deorbiting of approximately 100 first-generation Starlink satellites. This move signals the Elon Musk-led aerospace company is accelerating its expansion into the AI infrastructure sector.
According to the company's release, SpaceX intends to build a data center in the U.S. Midwest specifically designed for AI workloads, which will directly leverage the high-speed, low-latency data backhaul capabilities provided by its Starlink satellite network. The facility is projected to have a capacity of around 250 megawatts and will utilize SpaceX's proprietary liquid cooling systems and energy management solutions, with the first batch of server racks planned for deployment in the second quarter of 2027.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk stated on social media that Starlink is not only a tool for providing internet access to remote areas but can also serve as a massive data transport network for AI computing. As AI models continue to grow in scale, the demands for data synchronization and transmission efficiency in distributed training are increasing, and SpaceX's low-Earth orbit satellite architecture holds unique potential in addressing this challenge.
Concurrently, SpaceX confirmed it is executing controlled deorbiting maneuvers for about 100 first-generation Starlink satellites. The company noted these satellites have exceeded their designed operational lifespan and will be guided to safely burn up in the atmosphere, in compliance with international space debris mitigation guidelines. SpaceX emphasized that the deorbiting operations will not impact in-service satellites or user terminals, and that the new generation of Starlink satellites is equipped with more advanced propulsion systems, allowing for more flexible end-of-life disposal.
Analysts point out that SpaceX's simultaneous advancement of data center construction and satellite fleet renewal demonstrates its strategic intent to build an integrated "space + ground" AI infrastructure. This approach is expected to offer AI companies a unique, integrated solution for computing power and data transmission, creating a differentiated competitive barrier. Boosted by this news, SpaceX shares rose approximately 3% in Monday's trading. The company plans to disclose more details regarding partners and technical specifications for the AI data center in the coming months.