Elon Musk's Starmind: In the next few years, your AI requests may be processed in space instead of on the ground. To this end, Elon Musk has launched a new project called Starmind.
Elon Musk's Starmind: Moving beyond the race for AI data centers on land , the world's richest man, Elon Musk, now wants to utilize space. His company, SpaceX, plans to send one million AI satellites into space. These satellites will be equipped with powerful chips and perform AI computing. Now, the project has a name. Elon Musk has confirmed that it will be called Starmind. While it sounds similar to the company's Starlink, there will be significant differences in their functionality. Let's explore what information has emerged about this project.
Work on Starmind has begun.
Although the name of this project has just been confirmed, work on it has been ongoing for several months. In January of this year, SpaceX requested permission from the US Federal Communications Commission (USFCC) to build a network of 1 million AI satellites. Under this project, the company aims to create a massive computing network in outer space. The satellites in this network will not only transmit information but will also perform AI-related computing tasks. These satellites will be equipped with powerful processors, which will operate using solar energy. Each satellite will be approximately 79 meters wide and will be able to provide 120-150 kW of computing power.
Preparing to launch next year
Two test units are expected to be launched early next year to test this project. If all goes as expected, your AI requests could be processed in space, eliminating the need for a ground-based data center. According to reports, SpaceX may also use its Starship rocket to build the satellite network. Each launch can carry 30-50 AI satellites.
Why does Musk want to build a satellite network in space?
The advent of AI has increased the demand for data centers, but companies face significant challenges in building new ones. Data centers primarily require space. Furthermore, they require significant amounts of water and energy, which often leads to opposition from companies. Given this, space is now being considered for data center locations.
