Updated
Updated · The Motley Fool · Jun 21
SpaceX May Tap NuScale Reactors for AI Data Centers After $85 Billion IPO
Updated
Updated · The Motley Fool · Jun 21

SpaceX May Tap NuScale Reactors for AI Data Centers After $85 Billion IPO

1 articles · Updated · The Motley Fool · Jun 21

Summary

  • $85 billion in fresh IPO capital could push SpaceX toward small modular nuclear reactors as it expands power-hungry AI data centers, with NuScale emerging as a potential fit.
  • AI accounts for more than 90% of SpaceX's stated total addressable market, making data-center buildout central to justifying the company's post-IPO valuation.
  • NuScale's SMR designs are pitched as faster to deploy than conventional nuclear plants—two to three years from construction start versus roughly a decade for larger reactors.
  • SpaceX already uses grid power, off-grid solar and Tesla Megapacks, while also pursuing orbital solar-powered data centers; a mixed energy strategy may be needed if terrestrial AI capacity scales quickly.
  • Reports that SpaceX could also seek a $20 billion bond sale suggest it is preparing for years of heavy capital spending across rockets, orbital infrastructure and AI computing.

Insights

SpaceX is chasing nuclear power, but could the global chip shortage ultimately derail its AI ambitions?
Why would SpaceX pursue costly nuclear power on Earth if its ultimate vision for AI is in space?