Blue Origin Files for Project Sunrise to Launch 51,600 Satellite Data Centers

Blue Origin has filed plans with the FCC for Project Sunrise, proposing the launch of 51,600 satellites to establish space-based data centers. Operating in sun-synchronous orbits, these satellites will utilize optical inter-satellite links for data transmission, aiming to enhance AI computing infrastructure and introduce clean energy sources. This initiative, while smaller than SpaceX's plan for up to 1 million satellites, marks a significant increase from the current 15,000 satellites in orbit.

Published Mar 20, 2026

Blue Origin has filed plans for Project Sunrise with the FCC, proposing to launch 51,600 satellites to create space-based data centers. These satellites will operate in sun-synchronous orbits, utilizing optical inter-satellite links for data transmission to Earth via its TeraWave system.

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This project aims to expand AI computing infrastructure and introduce new clean energy sources. While Blue Origin's proposal is significantly smaller than SpaceX's plan for up to 1 million satellites, it still represents a substantial increase from the 15,000 satellites currently in orbit.

The company emphasizes the potential societal benefits of AI facilitated by improved computing access in space. Both Blue Origin and SpaceX are developing rockets to support these satellite deployments.