China to Launch Space-Based AI Data Centers, Challenging SpaceX

• China plans to deploy gigawatt-class space-based AI data centers within five years, as reported by state media and CASC.
• These centers will integrate cloud, edge, and terminal capabilities to process data from Earth in space, aiming for a "Space Cloud" by 2030.
• This initiative directly challenges Elon Musk's SpaceX, which also plans to launch solar-powered orbital AI data centers within two to three years.
• Both nations aim to shift energy-intensive AI processing to space, leveraging higher solar power generation in orbit and reducing costs.
• China also eyes suborbital and orbital space tourism, and recently inaugurated a School of Interstellar Navigation to foster deep space exploration talent.

Why It Matters: China is aggressively pursuing space-based AI data centers and deep space exploration, intensifying its rivalry with the US.