SpaceX Files Application with FCC to Offer Internet Access Via Satellite Constellation

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SpaceX Files Application with FCC to Offer Internet Access Via Satellite Constellation

By CircleID Reporter
June 11, 2015, 12:03 am PDT Views: 7,070 Add Comment

SpaceX, the private space company headed by Elon Musk, has filed an application with the US FCC (Federal Communications Commission) as part of a preliminary plan to launch a network of satellites providing Internet access around the globe. The application submitted last week (May 29th), outlines two satellites initially to be launched by Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (SpaceX), and later expanding to 6-8 trial satellites that will be in orbit for 6-12 months.

Musk first made his plans known in January at a SpaceX event in Seattle, where the company was opening a new office. Long-term plan involves launching a constellation of 4,000 small and cheap satellites that will send high-speed Internet signals to all parts of the globe, including some of the most remote regions. Musk has pointed out that it will take many, many years to have his Internet service up and running. SpaceX is looking at 2020 before this could possibly be a consumer product.

By CircleID Reporter

CircleID’s internal staff reporting on news tips and developing stories. Do you have information the professional Internet community should be aware of? Contact us.

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