Your AI could operate in orbit if SpaceX's satellite proposal is approved.
SpaceX's acquisition of xAI links the growth of artificial intelligence to a strategy for establishing AI data centers in space, centered around a proposed mega-constellation of satellites.
In the second integrated test flight in November 2023, SpaceX's Starship spacecraft successfully separated from the first-stage Super Heavy rocket.
SpaceX has merged with xAI, combining two of Elon Musk's significant ventures as the demand for AI infrastructure continues to rise. Musk emphasizes a particular objective: creating AI data centers in space.
He argues that the advancement of AI today relies heavily on large data centers on Earth, which consume substantial amounts of power and require extensive cooling. He claims that moving more computational processes into orbit can alleviate these issues by utilizing abundant solar energy and providing space for scaling.
SpaceX is actively pursuing this concept through the regulatory framework. They have requested authorization from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to deploy a constellation of 1 million satellites, outlining a network of solar-powered data centers designed to accommodate the increasing demand for AI-driven data. Musk also mentioned that in two to three years, the most cost-effective method for AI computation will be in space.
The filing solidifies the plan
The FCC request marks the most concrete indication yet of the plan. A constellation of that magnitude signifies more than just communications; it implies processing capabilities in orbit, allowing data to be managed above the atmosphere rather than being sent back to Earth for each step.
This illustrates why xAI is part of SpaceX. The merger connects AI software and its demand directly to a company capable of deploying hardware in space, which also enhances xAI's access to capital and computational resources.
Rising power costs increase urgency
The demand for AI computation is driving up infrastructure investment. Next-generation models may require significantly more power than their predecessors, and Goldman Sachs predicts a sharp rise in data center power requirements by 2030.
Microsoft reported $37.5 billion in capital expenditures in the last quarter of 2025, while Meta reported $22.14 billion. Additionally, some residents in the U.S. have experienced increased electricity bills, and a Bloomberg News analysis indicated steep rises in electricity costs near data centers compared to five years ago.
Upcoming signals are regulatory and operational.
The first hurdle is obtaining regulatory approval for the satellite initiative, followed by execution, which may involve potential cultural differences since reports indicate that a former xAI employee warned about varying working styles.
An IPO is another aspect to monitor. Musk confirmed in December that he plans to pursue an initial public offering for SpaceX, which is reportedly valued at around $1.5 trillion, and combining the companies may influence that proposal if SpaceX can translate filings into timelines and actual deployments.
---
Apple's Xcode 26.3 introduces AI agents that not only suggest code but also automate tasks on your behalf.
Apple has discreetly transformed Xcode, its long-standing app development tool, by integrating AI capabilities for agentic coding. Last year, the company added basic AI features, such as code suggestions and completion, in Xcode 26, but the latest update significantly changes the game.
Xcode 26.3 now features robust AI agents, including Anthropic's Claude and OpenAI's Codex, capable of analyzing your current project, adjusting settings, searching for relevant information, running tests, and interacting with previews—all through text-based commands.
---
A power supply, often overlooked in a PC build, is currently available at a reduced price of $99.99, which is an essential upgrade for maintaining stability.
The power supply is the least glamorous aspect of building a PC, often leading users to skimp on it. Later, when they upgrade to a more power-hungry graphics card, issues may arise. The Corsair RM850e is now priced at $99.99, down 31% from $144.99. This deal makes it easy to make a wise decision: invest in a modern, adequately specified power supply once and avoid future concerns.
---
A versatile 2K touchscreen 2-in-1 laptop is now priced at $499.99, offering strong value for various uses like work, school, and travel.
Some laptop deals require specific knowledge of what you want to evaluate their value. This offer is straightforward: it meets diverse needs with minimal compromise. The Dell Plus Copilot+ 14-inch 2-in-1 is available for $499.99, saving you $350 from its original price of $849.99. For a convertible with a 2K touchscreen, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage, this price presents a reasonable upgrade option for everyday use in 2026.
Other articles
Your AI could operate in orbit if SpaceX's satellite proposal is approved.
SpaceX has acquired xAI and is linking the acquisition to artificial intelligence data centers in space. A suggested constellation of 1 million satellites would enable solar-powered computing in orbit, but regulatory challenges and implementation risks will determine the feasibility of the project.
