Scientists have warned of the catastrophic consequences of humans trying to put data centers in space after it was revealed that trillionaire Elon Musk and billionaire Jeff Bezos plan to send data centers into orbit.
Musk-owned SpaceX and Bezos-owned Blue Origin argue that data centers in space are cost-effective because space is free, provides unlimited power from the sun, 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 possible data centers in space.
The executive director of Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility, Tim Whitehouse, said it would be “reckless to allow such action without proper review”, adding: “The potential for these projects to degrade the atmosphere with pollution and waste and harm wildlife must be carefully considered before these projects are licensed.”
This comes after Bezos and Musk made similar remarks at different events last year. Bezos predicted that data centers in space would become a reality within the next decade or two; whereas Musk went one step ahead and said, “SpaceX will do this.”
Experts have warned that placing data centers in space could change the atmosphere, disrupt wildlife and possibly change the night sky forever. The FCC has yet to respond to EarthJustice’s request.
