Tesla Revives Dojo Project for Space-Based AI Computing

Tesla resumes Dojo3 project for space-based AI computing.

Tesla is set to resume work on Dojo3, a previously abandoned project aimed at developing a third-generation AI chip for electric vehicles. The chip will now be used for space-based computations, according to Elon Musk.

Now that the AI5 chip design is in good shape, Tesla will restart work on Dojo3.

If you’re interested in working on what will be the highest volume chips in the world, send a note to AI_Chips@Tesla.com with 3 bullet points on the toughest technical problems you’ve solved.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 18, 2026

Dojo is Tesla’s specialised supercomputer and computing platform designed for training neural networks on vast arrays of video and sensor data.

The development was first discussed in April 2019, when the company introduced its autopilot chips. At that time, Musk positioned Dojo as a key element of Tesla’s AI strategy and actively promoted the project in subsequent years.

The initiative faced challenges. In July 2024, ahead of the robotaxi presentation, Musk promised to “double efforts” on the platform’s development. However, by August 2025, the billionaire unexpectedly announced the project’s closure and the disbandment of the team. Despite plans to release a second-generation system (Dojo 2) in 2026, he called the project an “evolutionary dead end.”

Now, more ambitious plans are being set for Dojo’s development.

AI4 by itself will achieve self-driving safety levels very far above human.

AI5 will make the cars almost perfect and greatly enhance Optimus.

AI6 will be for Optimus and data centers.

AI7/Dojo3 will be space-based AI compute.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 18, 2026

“AI7/Dojo3 will be designed for space-based AI computing,” Musk stated.

Tesla is preparing to reassemble the team it disbanded several months ago.

“If you’re interested in working on what will be the highest volume chips in the world, send a note to AI_Chips@Tesla.com with three bullet points on the toughest technical problems you’ve solved,” the entrepreneur noted.

Space: The Future Trend

Musk and several other company leaders believe the future of data centers lies beyond Earth. They argue that the planet’s energy grids are nearing their limits.

The advantages include virtually unlimited access to solar energy and space for equipment deployment. The downside is the high cost of rocket launches with the necessary infrastructure.

Analysts from research group 33FG have calculated that AI computations in orbit will become economically viable by 2030.

Google was one of the first to take the initiative. The firm announced a plan to create a network of satellites in low Earth orbit, enabling energy generation to power data centers.

The idea is supported by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, but Elon Musk has a strategic advantage—control over delivery means.

The entrepreneur plans to use the upcoming IPO of SpaceX to fund his idea of using Starship to launch groups of computing satellites that can operate in constant sunlight and gather energy around the clock.

Back in May 2025, China sent 12 satellites into space as part of a project to launch a network of orbital supercomputers.