SpaceX Launches Broadband Satellites

Elon Musk’s Space Exploration Technologies Corp. launched two experimental satellites for its proposed Stalink global broadband service this morning.

SpaceX’s Starlink system aims to provide low-cost, low-latency broadband internet service, using thousands of satellites in a low Earth orbit. Musk says the goal of the program is to provide internet access to those “least served” by currently available networks.

Broader smart city applications also could connect underserved communities with flexible transportation options.  In addition, a low-cost internet connection could be used as a hotspot in future vehicles to help enable advanced connectivity features.

The satellites—along with a Spanish radar imaging satellite—were aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, which was launched from an Air Force base in California. SpaceX plans to begin launching operational satellites next year and provide limited broadband internet service by 2020.

Experts estimate SpaceX will need to launch more than 4,400 satellites to achieve its desired coverage. There currently are less than 1,500 satellites orbiting the Earth.

A SpaceX launch earlier this month included a Tesla Roadster as part of its payload. The vehicle is being sent into a deep space orbit that will take it relatively close to Mars.