Since the beginning of this year, the US private space company and T-Mobile have been working with Starlink to provide direct internet to devices. In recent months, the two companies have tested the satellite cellular data connection and obtained results that can be called normal. The US Federal Communications Commission has authorized satellite cellular internet.
SpaceX authorized to operate satellite cellular internet inside and outside the US
SpaceX and T-Mobile have long been working on a system that would eliminate cell towers and test communications via Starlink satellites. The companies have been testing voice and video calls for the past few months and have reported that everything is on track without any problems. Then eyes turned to the beta test for T-Mobile users, which should start this September. However, the tests could not be started due to the late granting of the expected permission from the FCC, the US Federal Communications Authority.
As of November 26, 2024, the US Federal Communications Authority (FCC), with a statement, allowed SpaceX to move 200 kilometers closer to Earth from the orbit of the satellites it will use for satellite cellular internet connection. In this way, communication between satellites and cell phones will be much faster than before. SpaceX will also use some of the second-generation Starlink satellites to serve T-Mobile users. With the Commission’s decision, SpaceX will be authorized to operate satellite cellular internet service inside and outside the US.
IRIS 2, the satellite internet service that the EU is promoting as a rival to Starlink, is not expected to be operational until early 2030.
However, the FCC may be adding a limitation for SpaceX for the time being. The Commission recognized that satellite-device connectivity can support critical public interest benefits, such as widespread connectivity, access to 112 emergency services in remote areas, technological advancement and innovative spectrum use, the FCC statement said. In recent weeks, NASA has granted permission for Starlink satellites to descend into 30-kilometer orbits.
So what do you think about SpaceX and T-Mobile’s satellite cellular internet service? Please don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments section below
