Tesla is reviving its Dojo3 project to develop AI chips for space computing, according to Elon Musk.
Tesla is reviving its Dojo3 project, previously on hold, to develop a third-generation AI chip specifically for space computing, as announced by Elon Musk.
With the AI5 chip design progressing well, we are kicking off the work on Dojo3.
If you're keen to tackle the world's highest volume chips, reach out at AI_Chips@Tesla.com with three key technical challenges you've overcome.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 18, 2026
Dojo serves as Tesla's supercomputer platform for training neural networks using extensive video and sensor data.
Initially introduced in April 2019 alongside Tesla's autopilot chips, Dojo was highlighted as a critical element of the company's AI vision, with Musk actively promoting its development. However, the project faced setbacks, and by August 2025, Musk announced its termination, calling it an "evolutionary dead end," despite plans for a second-generation system.
Now, Musk has laid out new, more ambitious goals for Dojo.
AI4 will enable self-driving capabilities that surpass human safety levels.
AI5 will refine vehicle performance and enhance Optimus.
AI6 will cater to Optimus and data centers.
AI7/Dojo3 will focus on AI computing in space.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 18, 2026
“AI7/Dojo3 will be tailored for space-based AI computing,” Musk confirmed.
Tesla is now in the process of reassembling the team that was earlier disbanded.
“If you’re interested in developing the most widely produced chips, contact AI_Chips@Tesla.com with three bullet points on your toughest technical solutions,” Musk added.
Shifting Data Centers to Space
Musk and other leaders at Tesla believe that the future of data centers lies in space, as Earth's energy infrastructure is nearing capacity. Advantages of this shift include unlimited solar energy access and ample space for equipment, although the high costs of rocket launches pose a challenge.
Research firm 33FG predicts that AI computing in orbit will become economically feasible by 2030. Google has already initiated plans for a network of low Earth orbit satellites to supply energy for data centers. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman supports this vision, but Musk holds a strategic edge with his delivery systems.
He aims to utilize the upcoming SpaceX IPO to finance a fleet of computing satellites, leveraging the constant sunlight in space for energy collection. Notably, China recently launched 12 satellites as part of a project to establish a network of orbital supercomputers.
