September 8th, 2024

Musk now controls two thirds of all active satellites

Elon Musk's SpaceX controls about two-thirds of active satellites, operating 6,370 Starlink satellites. The network, available in 102 countries, raises concerns over Musk's influence in global communications.

Read original articleLink Icon
Musk now controls two thirds of all active satellites

Elon Musk's SpaceX now controls approximately two-thirds of all active satellites orbiting Earth, following the launch of its 7,000th Starlink satellite. The Starlink network, which began operations in 2019, has expanded rapidly, with an average of three satellites launched daily. Currently, SpaceX operates 6,370 active Starlink satellites, representing over 62% of all operational satellites, significantly outpacing its closest competitor, OneWeb. SpaceX plans to deploy up to 42,000 satellites to enhance global internet connectivity. Starlink services are available in 102 countries, with over three million subscribers. However, access is restricted in certain nations due to trade embargoes or internet regulations, although some users have managed to obtain service through illegal means. Musk's control over such a vast satellite network raises concerns about the influence he wields in global communications and economic data. Following a recent launch, Musk highlighted the scale of Starlink's operations on social media, emphasizing the network's dominance in the satellite industry.

- Elon Musk's SpaceX controls about two-thirds of all active satellites.

- Starlink has launched an average of three satellites per day since 2019.

- SpaceX operates 6,370 active Starlink satellites, far exceeding its nearest competitor.

- Starlink is available in 102 countries, with plans for expansion.

- Concerns arise over Musk's significant influence in global communications.

Related

Elon Musk's Starlink struggles with regulations in Africa

Elon Musk's Starlink struggles with regulations in Africa

Elon Musk's Starlink faces regulatory challenges in Africa, including disconnection in Cameroon for operating without a license. Criticized as anti-competitive, it encounters obstacles in multiple countries, raising concerns about content control and economic contribution. Despite securing licenses in some nations, accessibility and affordability issues persist, prompting debates on alternative internet coverage solutions.

SpaceX's new direct-to-cell Starlink satellites are brighter than the originals

SpaceX's new direct-to-cell Starlink satellites are brighter than the originals

SpaceX's new direct-to-cell Starlink satellites are five times brighter, orbit at 217 miles, and enable smartphone connectivity. Concerns about brightness, space debris, and astronomical impacts are increasing.

China Launches Starlink Rival

China Launches Starlink Rival

China launched 18 satellites to establish a network competing with Starlink, aiming for 15,000 satellites by 2030. The initiative supports technological self-reliance and anticipates a $321 billion space industry by 2024.

Starlink and Inequality

Starlink and Inequality

Starlink's pricing raises concerns about market capture strategies, potentially worsening the digital divide. Local ownership requirements complicate foreign technology integration, while environmental risks of satellite constellations remain significant.

'Can't live without it': alarm at Musk's Starlink dominance in Brazil's Amazon

'Can't live without it': alarm at Musk's Starlink dominance in Brazil's Amazon

Elon Musk's Starlink has over 250,000 clients in Brazil, notably in the Amazon, raising national security concerns due to its use by illegal miners and Musk's control over sensitive data.

Link Icon 2 comments
By @h2odragon - 7 months
Once, the Russian government controlled 100% of the active satellites. The US Government found that intolerable, and took action: now look where we are.
By @colesantiago - 7 months
This doesn't sound good, lets stop him everyone.

Any ideas?