Could AI Data Centers Be Moved to Outer Space?

The article explores the growing energy and environmental challenges posed by the rapid expansion of AI data centers on Earth. These centers consume enormous amounts of electricity—AI servers alone are projected to require substantial power by 2028—leading to increased energy prices and greater carbon emissions. Additionally, the high heat output of AI chips necessitates advanced cooling methods, with many facilities turning to water evaporation cooling, which uses millions of gallons of water daily and strains local water resources. This has led to local opposition against new data center projects, raising the question of how to sustainably support the growing AI demand. One proposed solution is relocating data centers to outer space, where continuous solar energy is available and the cold environment could simplify thermal management. In orbit, data centers could perform heavy AI processing and transmit results back to Earth, similar to satellite internet. While theoretically feasible—Google’s AI overview confirms that space-based data centers can be built—the article urges caution, emphasizing the need for human intelligence to assess practical challenges. It also explains