SpaceX rocket launches satellites for the Starlink internet constellation
- The Falcon 9 booster carried 53 satellites for the Starlink internet constellation after blasting off from California.
- All the satellites were successfully deployed into the orbit by the rocket
Starlink
- It is a space-based system that SpaceX has been building for years to bring internet access to underserved areas of the world
- Aim: building a low-cost, satellite-based broadband network capable of delivering internet access to the entire globe.
- SpaceX intends to put a “constellation” of satellites in low earth orbit, thereby providing high-speed, cable-like internet to every corner of the planet.
- SpaceX will need to launch 4,425 satellites into orbit to achieve its desired coverage.
Benefits of Satellite internet
- Broadband-level speeds are possible.
- Ubiquitous (available everywhere)
- In comparison to mobile hotspots, it is less expensive.
- Quick post-disaster recovery
- Satellite internet does not require a phone line.
- Because satellite internet connections can withstand large bandwidth utilisation, multiple users or "peak use hours" do not harm internet speed or quality.
Associated Challenges
- Long latency
- Slower than fibre and cable
- Weather-related vulnerability
- VPN is not supported.
- Vulnerable to Solar winds in space
Exam Track
Prelims Takeaway
- Starlink
- Reusable rockets
- VPN
- Solar winds
- LEO