Scientists have warned of catastrophic consequences if humans try to put data centers in space after it was revealed that trillionaire Elon Musk and billionaire Jeff Bezos are planning to put data centers in orbit.
Musk-owned SpaceX and Bezos-owned Blue Origin argue that data centers in space are profitable because space is free, provides unlimited solar power, cheap operating costs and is also safer from terrorist attacks.
Now, a coalition of scientists, represented by Earth Justice, wants the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to conduct a “comprehensive environmental review” of the risks posed by potential data centers in space.
Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility executive director Tim Whitehouse said allowing any such action without proper review would be “reckless,” adding: “The potential for these projects to degrade the atmosphere with pollution and debris and harm wildlife should be carefully considered before licensing these projects.”
This comes after Bezos and Musk made similar comments at different events last year. Bezos predicted that data centers in space would become a reality in the next decade or two; while Musk went a step ahead and said, “SpaceX will do this.”
Experts have warned that placing data centers in space could change the atmosphere, disrupt wildlife and alter the night sky forever. The FCC has yet to respond to EarthJustice’s request.
