On January 31, 2026, SpaceX, xAI, and Tesla founder Elon Musk took to X (Twitter) to offer an ambitious projection for deploying artificial intelligence computing power in orbital space. In a discussion on the necessity of deploying 100 GW/year computing capacity into orbit, Musk stated: “Up to 1 TW/year can be launched from Earth and 1 PW/year from the Moon.” To clarify, 1 terawatt (TW) equals 1,000 gigawatts (GW), and 1 petawatt (PW) equals 1,000 terawatts. Therefore, according to Musk, the Moon would allow for the expansion of orbital AI systems at a pace a thousand times faster than purely Earth-based launches.
The statement emerged in a thread contemplating companies potentially achieving trillion-dollar capitalizations through space-based AI computations. Recently, SpaceX submitted an application to the FCC to launch up to 1 million satellites to function as orbital data centers. Many in the X community expressed shock at the scale and started discussing the number of Starship launches and the construction of lunar factories.
Recent Updates and Technological Advancements
Since the beginning of 2026, SpaceX has been rapidly advancing its plans for satellite launches. The company has not only been pushing the boundaries of its Starship launch capabilities but has also announced partnerships with tech giants to enhance its AI computation infrastructure. These collaborations aim at accelerating the deployment of cutting-edge technology in space, establishing a benchmark for future developments in space-based AI.
Potential and Challenges of Lunar Infrastructure
Building infrastructure on the Moon comes with both opportunities and challenges. On the positive side, using lunar materials could significantly reduce the cost and energy required for construction, as outlined by leading aerospace engineers. Furthermore, the Moon’s low gravity simplifies the transportation and assembly of large structures. However, the project faces significant developmental risks, such as the volatility of the lunar environment and the immense initial investment required.
Lunar Factories: A Future Prospect?
Despite the ambitious outline, the development of lunar factories has not yet seen concrete steps toward realization. Experts emphasize the need for international cooperation and regulatory frameworks to bring these visions into practice. However, the mere conception of such projects highlights the forward-thinking nature of Musk’s endeavors, opening dialogues on sustainable AI deployment beyond Earth.
