SpaceX has completed its satellite network, which can be connected directly to mobile phones, with the 20 new Starlink satellites it sent into space with the Falcon 9 rocket this week. 13 of the satellites in the launch on Wednesday can communicate with mobile phones without the need for any additional devices. This development marks a new era in the field of worldwide communication.
This step by SpaceX accelerated last week when the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the company’s cooperation with T-Mobile. This partnership, announced in 2022, aims to make it possible for mobile phones to work over the satellite network. This system, which aims to strengthen the communication infrastructure especially in hard-to-reach regions, stands out as an important innovation in satellite technologies.
Features of the new Starlink satellites
SpaceX states that this system, called Starlink Direct to Cell, aims to solve communication problems in dead zones by connecting directly to mobile phones. According to the company’s statement, these satellites will work like “cell phone towers in space”, integrating with existing networks and providing a roaming-like service.
The Starlink network currently has 6,799 active satellites in orbit, of which approximately 330 have the ability to communicate directly with mobile phones. Elon Musk stated that up to 10 Mbps bandwidth per beam can be provided for unmodified mobile phones. It is planned to increase this capacity further in the future and to make the network serve a wider user base.
The satellites, which work with a laser-based communication system, aim to connect to the existing Starlink network and provide connectivity in a wide geography, from rural areas to the open seas. This system is of great importance in terms of providing uninterrupted communication, especially during emergencies.
Starting with T-Mobile, will spread worldwide
This technology was first developed in collaboration with T-Mobile. However, SpaceX officials emphasized that Starlink Direct to Cell technology is also open to other telecommunication companies around the world. SpaceX manager Ben Longmier stated that this system has the potential to create a global communication infrastructure and that the doors are open for cooperation with other operators.
The service is aimed to be offered to users in 2025. However, the rapid progress of development raises the possibility that the system may be put into operation earlier in some regions. On the other hand, this technology is vital not only for individual users but also for critical situations such as the restoration of communication infrastructure in regions affected by natural disasters.
Thanks to this project, SpaceX aims to expand communication access around the world. The system has the potential to offer significant opportunities for both individual users and corporate collaborations. The involvement of more telecommunication companies in cooperation in this field in the future may contribute to space-based communication technologies becoming more widespread in daily life.