Cowboy Space Files FCC Plans for 20,000-Satellite Orbital Data Center Constellation

Cowboy Space, a California-based startup, has filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to deploy a 20,000-satellite constellation named 'Stampede' for orbital data centers. This move follows a recent $275 million funding round aimed at developing rockets with upper stages capable of hosting computing payloads. The proposed Low Earth Orbit (LEO) network will operate in sun-synchronous orbits between 700 and 1,000 kilometers, leveraging continuous solar energy to overcome terrestrial power and infrastructure constraints. Cowboy seeks waivers for using optical communications instead of radio frequencies and for modified deployment timelines. While smaller than competitors like SpaceX and Blue Origin, the project aims to begin commercial operations with minimal satellites, scaling up over time. The company plans to demonstrate computing payloads using NVIDIA modules in early 2025, with full launches of one-megawatt data centers targeted for late 2028. Founded by Robinhood co-founder Baiju Bhatt, Cowboy argues this approach positions the US as a leader in space innovation by bypassing Earth's limited energy grid. The application also hints at future plans for wireless power beaming, with a technology demonstration scheduled for later this year.