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Space data centres promise 90% lower emissions—but can they overcome cosmic risks?

A bold leap into orbital computing could revolutionize energy use—or become a costly space gamble. The race is on, but the stakes are sky-high.

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1 min read
The image shows a data center with a row of servers in it, illuminated by lights on the ceiling....
The image shows a data center with a row of servers in it, illuminated by lights on the ceiling. The servers are arranged in a neat row, and the room is well-lit, giving the impression of a well-organized and efficient data center.

Space data centres promise 90% lower emissions—but can they overcome cosmic risks?

The race to move data centres into space is gaining speed. Companies like Starcloud are planning vast orbital networks to cut energy costs and emissions. With global electricity demand rising fast, some see space-based computing as the next big step.

The idea promises cleaner energy and lower cooling needs—but major hurdles remain.

Starcloud is leading the push with plans for 88,000 AI satellites by 2029. Each SpaceX Falcon 9 launch will carry around 50 modules, generating a combined 10 megawatts of power. The company's first test satellite, Starcloud-1, is set for launch later this year.

These orbital data centres could slash CO₂ emissions and energy costs by up to 90% compared to Earth-based facilities. By tapping into near-limitless solar power, they also reduce the need for cooling systems. Yet, despite the benefits, experts warn of high costs, cosmic radiation risks, and the dangers of collisions in space.

Starcloud's CEO, Philip Johnston, has broader ambitions beyond AI. The company is exploring Bitcoin mining in orbit, using solar energy and Nvidia technology. However, details on how many satellites will be deployed—or the exact steps to reach full operation by 2030—remain unclear.

Meanwhile, the energy demands of AI and data centres on Earth keep climbing. U.S. facilities alone may need more than double their current power supply by 2030. Yet, beaming orbital energy back to Earth remains inefficient, expensive, and technically unproven.

Orbital data centres could reshape how computing power is generated and used. If successful, they may ease pressure on Earth's energy grids while cutting emissions. But with technical and financial challenges still unsolved, the shift to space-based infrastructure remains uncertain.

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