SpaceXAI data center expansion faces protests and lawsuits

Residents in the Southaven, Mississippi, and Memphis, Tennessee, areas are protesting the expansion of a SpaceXAI data center. Local community members have reported persistent, jet-engine-like noise from gas turbines and concerns regarding worsening air quality and health issues, such as asthma.

The NAACP has filed a lawsuit against MZX Tech, a subsidiary of SpaceXAI, while local petitions have gathered over 1,400 signatures. Environmental advocates, including the Southern Environmental Law Center, have criticized the facility, alleging it operates an unpermitted power plant that produces harmful pollution.

In response to the local backlash, SpaceX has offered a 50% discount on Starlink satellite internet service to residents in the Memphis and Southaven area. Since late June, approximately 2,000 customers in the region have signed up for the discounted plans, which range from $27.50 to $65 per month.