- Starlink is looking to expand into ships, RVs, and trucks as well.
- SpaceX had filed permits to test its satellite internet system on five Gulfstream jets last year.
Starlink, the satellite internet constellation built by SpaceX, is reportedly in advanced talks with various airlines to provide low-cost internet connectivity during flights.
For the record, SpaceX has launched approximately 1800 Starlink satellites since 2018 and promises 20Mbps upload and 100 Mbps download speed in its beta phase. Customers can pay USD 99 per month for internet in the beta phase with a one-time cost of USD 499 for installation to acquire access to a Starlink’s dish and a Wi-Fi router.
SpaceX has been working on developing its aviation connectivity solutions for a while and has already shown some demonstrations, cited sources. The company intends to launch its broadband network commercially by late 2021.
The California-based aerospace manufacturer aims to expand Starlink’s customer base to include ships, RVs, and trucks as well. SpaceX had also filed various permits to test its satellite internet system on five Gulfstream jets last year.
Meanwhile, in March the company has asked for FCC approval to test this system on cars, maritime vessels, aircraft, and trucks.
In this context, the founder and CEO of SpaceX, Elon Musk was quoted saying that the company does not intend to connect Starlink to Tesla as their terminal is relatively bigger.
Jonathan Hofeller, SpaceX’s VP of Starlink reportedly said that inter-satellite links will be needed to provide internet connectivity to flights flying far from ground stations. He further stated that the next-gen of their constellation is under development and will have similar capabilities.
In related news, London-based global communications company OneWeb has launched 182 satellites in the low-orbit so far. Meanwhile, ViaSat Inc. is planning to deploy a 300 satellite low-orbit network by early 2022.
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