The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has invited SpaceX to provide comments on its proposed orbital data center plan, which involves a system of up to 1 million Non-Geostationary Satellites (NSGO) placed 500-2000km above the Earth.
Kardashev-II Level Civilization
The proposed system is part of SpaceX’s goal to become a Kardashev II-level civilization, which is a measure of a civilization’s energy consumption and technological advancement. According to FCC Chair Brendan Carr, the system would serve as a first step towards achieving this goal, as well as other applications.
Key Features of the Proposed System
- The system would primarily rely on optical intersatellite-links to connect with other satellites in the proposed system.
- It could also connect with satellites in SpaceX’s first- and second-generation Starlink systems.
- The system would be capable of providing a wide range of services, including data storage and processing.
SpaceX Seeks Waivers
SpaceX has sought several waivers in its application for the NSGO system, including:
- A waiver of FCC Sections 25.156(d) and 25.157, which govern the processing timelines and application processing of the system.
- A waiver of FCC Section 25.164, which requires companies to launch a specific number of satellites within a predetermined timeline and meet operational milestones.
- A waiver of FCC Section 25.165, which requires a company to file a surety bond worth millions with the agency should it fail to honor its obligations.
- A waiver of certain conditions outlined in FCC Section 25.114(a)(1), specifically the Schedule S, which is mandatory for all space filings.
Recent Developments
The news comes as SpaceX has merged with xAI, an artificial intelligence startup, in a deal that takes the combined value of the entity to over $1.25 trillion. The merger has sparked speculation about a possible merger between Tesla and SpaceX, although some investors have questioned the benefit of such a merger for Tesla’s shareholders.
Next Steps
The FCC is now seeking comment on the SpaceX application for the orbital data center plan. The agency will review the comments and make a decision on the application in the coming months. If approved, the system could mark a major milestone in the development of space-based technologies and the achievement of a Kardashev II-level civilization.