SpaceX Launches 53 Starlink Satellites From California: – INSIGHTSIAS

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GS Paper 3:

Topics Covered: Developments in Science and Technology.

 

Context:

SpaceX recently launched a rocket carrying 53 satellites for the Starlink internet constellation from California Onboard Falcon 9 rocket.

  • SpaceX has already launched more than 2,500 Starlink satellites to date but plans to loft many more.

 

What is the Starlink project?

The Starlink network is one of several ongoing efforts to start beaming data signals from space.

  • Under the project, the company intends to evolve into a constellation of nearly 12,000 satellites.
  • The aim is to provide low-cost and reliable space-based Internet services to the world.

 

What are the benefits of LEO satellites based internet?

  1. LEO satellites are positioned around 500km-2000km from earth, compared to stationary orbit satellites which are approximately 36,000km away.
  2. As LEO satellites orbit closer to the earth, they are able to provide stronger signals and faster speeds than traditional fixed-satellite systems.
  3. Because signals travel faster through space than through fibre-optic cables, they also have the potential to rival if not exceed existing ground-based networks.

 

Challenges:

LEO satellites travel at a speed of 27,000 kph and complete a full circuit of the planet in 90-120 minutes. As a result, individual satellites can only make direct contact with a land transmitter for a short period of time thus requiring massive LEO satellite fleets and consequently, a significant capital investment.

 

Criticisms of LEO satellites:

  1. The balance of power has shifted from countries to companies since most of these are private companies run projects. As a result, there are questions related to who regulates these companies, especially given the myriad of nations that contribute to individual projects.
  2. Complicated regulatory framework:
  3. Stakeholders in these companies are from various countries. Thus it becomes challenging to receive requisite licences to operate in each country.
  4. Satellites can sometimes be seen in the night skies which creates difficulties for astronomers as the satellites reflect sunlight to earth, leaving streaks across images.
  5. Satellites travelling at a lower orbit can also interrupt the frequency of those orbiting above them.
  6. Those objects, colloquially referred to as ‘space junk,’ have the potential to damage spacecraft or collide with other satellites.

 

Potential:

LEO satellite broadband is preferable in areas that cannot be reached by fibre and spectrum services. The target market will therefore be rural populations and military units operating away from urban areas.

 

Are there any other similar projects?

  1. One Web.
  2. Jio satellite broadband services.

 

Insta Curious:

Have you heard of SWARM – A space exploration concept? Read Here

 

InstaLinks:

Prelims Link:

  1. About LEO.
  2. Starlink project.
  3. Benefits of LEO satellite based internet.

Mains Link:

Discuss the Concerns associated with satellite based internet services.

[Q.4) Consider the following statements:

    1. Low earth orbit satellites are positioned around 500km-2000km from earth.
    2. The Starlink project uses LEO based satellites.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

    1. 1 only.
    2. 2 only.
    3. Both.
    4. None. ]

Sources: NDTV.

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