SpaceX sees itself as infrastructure company, plans data centers on Earth and in orbit: COO Gwynne Shotwell

SpaceX is shifting its identity to position itself as an infrastructure company, expanding beyond launch services and satellites into AI computing and data centers, both on Earth and in orbit. In an exclusive interview with CNBC following its Nasdaq debut, COO Gwynne Shotwell stated that investors should view SpaceX as more than a space and satellite business, highlighting its growing role in AI infrastructure. Shotwell revealed plans to launch the AI-1 satellite program late next year, designed to support AI computing. Before deploying the full AI-1 satellites, SpaceX will integrate computing capabilities into existing Starlink broadband and Starlink Mobile satellites. The company aims to test the technology thoroughly before scaling operations, referencing its approach of 'canary tests' to ensure reliability. SpaceX intends to compete in the AI infrastructure market without matching the capital expenditure of major rivals, citing efficient compute usage as a key advantage. Shotwell also noted Starship development and Starlink’s growth in consumer, enterprise, and mobile sectors as critical areas for investors to monitor. The company’s Nasdaq debut on Friday marked the largest initial public offering ever, with shares opening at $150 and peaking at $166.90, valuing SpaceX at approximately $2.18 trillion. Forbes estimated Elon Musk’s net worth at around $1.1 trillion following the market debut. Shotwell reinforced SpaceX’s ambition to enter the AI cloud and computing market, stating, 'One hundred percent. We are builders.' The company’s strategy combines its satellite network, AI ambitions, and infrastructure capabilities to challenge established tech firms in data centers and computing capacity.