The Verge • 1/31/2026

SpaceX has submitted a proposal to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch a vast network of 1 million solar-powered data center satellites into low Earth orbit. This request, filed on a recent Friday, is part of SpaceX's strategy to negotiate by initially proposing an exaggerated number of satellites, even though such a large-scale project is unlikely to receive approval from the FCC. The envisioned constellation would utilize laser communication between satellites, positioning itself as a pioneering step toward advanced solar energy utilization. This initiative reflects a broader trend in the tech industry towards ambitious space projects aimed at harnessing renewable energy and enhancing global connectivity. The concept of a Kardashev II civilization, which refers to a society capable of harnessing energy on a planetary scale, underscores the long-term vision behind SpaceX's proposal. Historically, humanity has consistently sought to expand its technological frontiers, from the Industrial Revolution to the Space Age, and this endeavor aligns with that trajectory. The implications of such advancements could reshape data management and energy consumption, highlighting the ongoing intersection of technology and sustainability in addressing future challenges.
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