SpaceX, Nvidia Unveil AI Satellites Powered by Rubin GPUs

SpaceX and Nvidia have teamed up to create AI satellites powered by Rubin GPUs. The Starmind AI1 fleet of satellites will be embedded with Nvidia's Rubin GPUs and Vera CPUs, and will link with the Starlink constellation to beam data via laser at high speeds.

The satellites are designed for maximal AI computation, drawing energy from solar power in a Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO). According to Elon Musk, SpaceX has committed to using Nvidia GPUs exclusively because they are the best. The Starmind AI1 satellites will be 20 meters tall with a 75-meter solar wingspan, and will host a Rubin NVL72 rack with 72 GPUs.

The prototype testing is scheduled for early 2027, with mass production expected later that year if development stays on track. The FCC has granted an initial application, but a final decision on the full deployment is still pending. SpaceX plans high-volume manufacturing at its new Gigasat Factory in Bastrop, Texas, with satellites launching aboard Starship.