Name
6 ‘Moonshot’ Trends for the 2026 Data Center Frontier
Description

What if the next big leap in data center innovation isn’t just an evolution—but a revolution? In the data center industry, a "moonshot" represents an ambitious, game-changing idea or technology with the potential to redefine the sector’s future. These projects often push the boundaries of efficiency, sustainability, or computing power—whether through advances in AI-driven automation, next-generation cooling, or breakthrough energy strategies. At Data Center Frontier, we’ve long tracked these transformative efforts, analyzing their real-world viability, investment impact, and long-term implications for data center operators, hyperscalers, and the broader digital infrastructure ecosystem. In this high-energy, high-stakes panel, six visionary leaders will pitch their boldest "moonshot" ideas in a lightning-round format inspired by Shark Tank. From superconducting power transmission and solid-state transformers to lunar data resiliency and AI-optimized sustainability, each pitch is limited to seven minutes to outline the idea, its industry impact, and its path to adoption. The judges for this special session are none other than Phillip Koblence and Nabeel Mahmood of the Nomad Futurist Foundation, alongside digital infrastructure strategist Bill Kleyman of Apolo—a trio known for bold thinking, deep technical chops, and a passion for surfacing the next generation of ideas and leaders. Following the rapid-fire presentations, our panel of judges will engage in fast, probing feedback, evaluating each pitch’s feasibility, strategic relevance, and game-changing potential. Then, the audience will vote live to select the most promising Moonshot idea of the session. The winning presenter will be invited for a feature interview on an upcoming episode of The DCF Show Podcast. Expect bold ideas, sharp commentary, and a glimpse into the future of digital infrastructure—faster than you can say “liquid cooling on the moon

Ryan Mallory Honghai Song Ralph Benko Mauricio Esguerra Ed Nichols Matt Morris Phillip Koblence Nabeel Mahmood Bill Kleyman
Date & Time
Thursday, August 28, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM