Michaela
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has reportedly begun exploring the acquisition or launch of a rocket company to deploy high-energy data centers in orbit, a move that would position him in direct competition with Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
Key Points
- Sam Altman is exploring launching or acquiring a rocket company to deploy orbital data centers, directly challenging Elon Musk's SpaceX ambitions in space.
- Altman reportedly discussed a multibillion-dollar investment for a controlling stake in launch startup Stoke Space, aiming for orbital infrastructure, though these talks have since stalled.
- The professional rivalry between Altman and Musk, stemming from OpenAI's founding, intensifies as Altman's space ventures now directly compete with Musk's established SpaceX.
The Wall Street Journal reports that Altman has explored the possibility of acquiring or partnering with an existing rocket company. Sources indicate he reached out to at least one launch startup, Stoke Space, with discussions beginning over the summer and gaining momentum in the fall.
The proposals reportedly included a multibillion-dollar equity investment that could have given OpenAI a controlling stake in the firm. Sources close to the company, however, indicated that the discussions have since stalled.
In 2022, Musk founded SpaceX with the goal of lowering the cost of space travel and eventually enabling human life on other planets. The company designs, manufactures, and launches rockets and spacecraft, offering services that range from satellite deployment to cargo and crewed missions to the International Space Station.
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The rivalry between Altman and Musk dates back to 2015 when the two co-founded OpenAI. Musk left in 2018 following disagreements over the organization’s management and approach to AI development. Since then, their competition has focused on technology and innovation.
Musk has advanced projects such as xAI and SpaceX’s space ventures, while Altman has concentrated on growing OpenAI and exploring ambitious initiatives, including orbiting data centers and potential rocket ventures. The rivalry remains primarily professional, reflecting overlapping ambitions in AI, space exploration, and emerging technology rather than personal conflict.
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In April, OpenAI filed a countersuit against Musk in response to his claims that the company sought to convert to a public benefit corporation while operating under its existing for-profit structure. The filing also alleged that Musk departed from OpenAI after the company declined his proposal to merge with his electric vehicle and clean energy company, Tesla.
The lawsuit alleges that Musk did not fulfill his $1 billion pledge to OpenAI and instead launched his own AI company, xAI, roughly a year after ChatGPT’s debut. Musk’s legal team reportedly noted an earlier unsolicited $97.4 billion acquisition offer led by Musk, which OpenAI ultimately declined.
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MICHAELA
Michaela is a news writer focused on cryptocurrency and blockchain topics. She prioritizes rigorous research and accuracy to uncover interesting angles and ensure engaging reporting. A lifelong book lover, she applies her passion for reading to deeply explore the constantly evolving crypto world.
