Space Internet

SpaceX aims to launch internet from space.

18:53 19 November 2016

SpaceX has applied for government permission to launch satellites that will provide global broadband internet access. The private rocket firm has laid out plans for a 4,425-strong satellite network in its filing to the US Federal Communications Commission (FFC). 

 

In a statement, the firm said: "Once fully deployed, the SpaceX system will pass over virtually all parts of the Earth's surface and therefore, in principle, have the ability to provide ubiquitous global service."

 

The satellites would orbit the planet below geostationary satellites but above the International Space Station. 

 

It is understood that the firm will launch some prototypes next year but the actual constellation may be launched within the next decade. 

 

With this move, SpaceX joins other group looking to make a pitch in this market. Intelsat (OneWeb), SES (O3B), Telesat and Boeing are at various stages in their own development plans.

 

Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, announced last year that the service, which “will cost $10bn just to get it off the ground”, would be "larger than anything that has been talked about to date”. 

 

SpaceX rocket launches, which have been on hold since September due to a costly accident, is hoped to resume next month.