SpaceX’s satellite internet service: Starlink

Business

Image Source: T-Online

Let’s deep-dive!

  • Starlink is a division within SpaceX and represents the growing network of orbital satellites. The development of these satellites began in 2015, with the first launch in 2018.
  • Since then, SpaceX has launched over 1,000 satellites across dozens of successful launches. The most recent launch was on May 26, 2021, bringing the total number of satellites to 1,737.
  • However, most of these satellites are prototypes or non-functioning parts of the network.

Starlink’s internet service is FAST?

Satellite vs. Fiber

We know the good, what’s the bad?

More of the bad…

Starlink satellites spotted over Turkey’s skies | Image Source: Business Insider
  • DarkSat: Launched in the beginning of 2020, this satellite has a special, non-reflective coating.
  • VisorSat: Launched in June 2020, this satellite has a special sunshade visor.

What’s next?

  • SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell recently told a forum on satellite technology that Starlink has no plans to add speed or pricing tiers, with the intention of keeping the service’s pricing as straightforward as possible.
  • Shotwell said that she expects the USD 500 upfront cost of the receiver dish that customers have to pay to come down in the coming years.
  • Recent FCC (Federal Communications Commission) filings suggest that Starlink could ultimately double as a dedicated phone service, too (wow!).

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News Line is it Anyway?

Simplified news columns and unbiased opinions on current affairs from experts across various fields.