Gearing up for the SpaceX IPO amid the race for data centers in space

Watch on YouTube ↗  |  May 18, 2026 at 17:56  |  2:10  |  CNBC
Speakers
Seema Mody — Technology and Global Markets Correspondent, CNBC

Summary

The video reports on SpaceX's planned IPO in early to mid June, the key role of space-based data centers in its valuation, and the significant technical challenges such as server cooling and radiation. It mentions competition from Jeff Bezos, Eric Schmidt, and Sam Altman in the space data center race.

  • SpaceX is reportedly aiming for an IPO in early to mid June.
  • Space-based data centers are a key part of SpaceX's mega $1.5 trillion valuation.
  • Technical challenges include cooling servers with radiator panels that do not yet exist and radiation damage to AI chips.
  • Google's Project Suncatcher suggests its custom TPU chips handle radiation well, and SpaceX is partnering with Google.
  • Competition in space data centers includes Jeff Bezos, Eric Schmidt, and Sam Altman.
  • The timeline for space data center deployment is about three years, per Elon Musk.
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