Amazon vs. SpaceX: Orbital Data Center Fight

Amazon's Project Kuiper is urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to reject SpaceX's proposal for a constellation of up to one million satellites intended for orbital data centers. Amazon contends that SpaceX's application is speculative and lacks essential details regarding satellite design and radio frequency usage.

The company argues that deploying a million satellites is an insurmountable logistical challenge, estimating it would take centuries even with all global launch capacity. Furthermore, Amazon expresses concern that approving SpaceX's plan could negatively impact other satellite operators and lead to a scramble for orbital resources.

SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, envisions these space-based data centers leveraging solar power and processing AI workloads. However, Amazon points to current launch rates, stating that at the pace of 4,526 satellites launched in 2025, a million satellites would take over 220 years. They also highlight the immense replenishment rate required, necessitating over 44 times the global launch output annually.

Concerns about space safety and orbital clutter have also been raised by experts and the public, with over 1,200 comments submitted to the FCC, far exceeding the typical volume for such applications. The American Astronomical Society and Viasat have also called for the proposal's denial.