Elon Musk links SpaceX and xAI in a record-setting merger to boost AI

interestingengineering.com
February 3, 2026
4 min read
49/100
Summary
Elon Musk has merged SpaceX with xAI to create a powerful combination aimed at expanding space-based data centers for artificial intelligence. This merger is expected to significantly impact the future of data centers and potentially establish the world's most valuable private company.
Key Takeaways
- Elon Musk has merged SpaceX and xAI to create a powerful entity aimed at expanding space-based data centers for AI computing.
- SpaceX was valued at approximately $800 billion, while xAI was valued at around $230 billion at the time of the merger.
- The merger aims to address the increasing demand for computing power by potentially relocating data centers to space, utilizing solar power and bypassing terrestrial limitations.
- Major technology companies are investing heavily in infrastructure to meet the growing electricity demands of AI, with estimates suggesting a 165% increase in data center electricity demand by 2030.
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