<p>Falcon 9, the reusable rocket from Elon Musk's SpaceX, successfully launched into orbit 23 Starlink satellites on Sunday (Aug 4), days after its failed launch had led to the destruction of 20 of these internet service satellites.</p>

<p>The launch on Sunday took place at 12.24 am local time, SpaceX said on its website. The company gave real-time updates on the social media platform X, also owned by Musk.</p>

<p>"Falcon 9 launched 23 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California," the company said.</p>

<p>"This was the sixth flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched USSF-62 and five Starlink missions for Falcon."</p>

<p>Eight minutes after the successful launch, the Falcon 9's first stage landed back on Earth, neatly entering the SpaceX droneship 'Of Course I Still Love You' on the Pacific Ocean.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Falcon 9 lands on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship, completing this booster’s sixth mission <a href="https://t.co/tPv4dV9fM4">pic.twitter.com/tPv4dV9fM4</a></p>
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1819999988044423517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk's SpaceX is building a network of spy satellites for US intelligence: Report</strong></p>

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<p>It was the sixth launch and landing for this particular booster, according to SpaceX.</p>

<p>"The Falcon 9's upper stage did its job as well, deploying the 23 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit as planned," the company said on X. The other successful missions were on July 27, two on July 28 and one on August 2.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well done SpaceX 🚀 <a href="https://t.co/RWIp4TpEF6">pic.twitter.com/RWIp4TpEF6</a></p>
— Tesla Pablo 🔋 (@pablo9948967714) <a href="https://twitter.com/pablo9948967714/status/1820009560242888937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-spacex-completes-test-of-5000-tonne-starship-the-most-powerful-launch-vehicle-729822"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Watch: SpaceX completes test of 5,000-tonne Starship, the most powerful launch vehicle</strong></a></p>

<p>On July 11, SpaceX lost 20 Starlink satellites after a failed mission by Falcon 9. The satellites were destroyed, falling down and burning upon re-entry to earth,&nbsp;after liquid oxygen leaked from Falcon rocket's upper stage. The leak resulted from a crack in the liquid-oxygen system's pressure sensors.<br />
<br />
That was the first in-flight failure of Falcon 9 since 2015.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Falcon 9, the reusable rocket from Elon Musk's SpaceX, successfully launched into orbit 23 Starlink satellites on Sunday (Aug 4), days after its failed launch had led to the destruction of 20 of these internet service satellites.

Falcon 9, the reusable rocket from Elon Musk's SpaceX, successfully launched into orbit 23 Starlink satellites on Sunday (Aug 4), days after its failed launch had led to the destruction of 20 of these internet service satellites. The launch on Sunday took place at 12.24 am local time, SpaceX said on its website. The company gave real-time updates on the social media platform X, also owned by Musk. "Falcon 9 launched 23 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California," the company said. "This was the sixth flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched USSF-62 and five Starlink missions for Falcon." Eight minutes after the successful launch, the Falcon 9's first stage landed back on Earth, neatly entering the SpaceX droneship 'Of Course I Still Love You' on the Pacific Ocean. Falcon 9 lands on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship, completing this booster’s sixth mission pic.twitter.com/tPv4dV9fM4 — SpaceX (@SpaceX) August 4, 2024 × Watch | Elon Musk's SpaceX is building a network of spy satellites for US intelligence: Report × It was the sixth launch and landing for this particular booster, according to SpaceX. "The Falcon 9's upper stage did its job as well, deploying the 23 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit as planned," the company said on X. The other successful missions were on July 27, two on July 28 and one on August 2. Well done SpaceX 🚀 pic.twitter.com/RWIp4TpEF6 — Tesla Pablo 🔋 (@pablo9948967714) August 4, 2024 × Also read | Watch: SpaceX completes test of 5,000-tonne Starship, the most powerful launch vehicle On July 11, SpaceX lost 20 Starlink satellites after a failed mission by Falcon 9. The satellites were destroyed, falling down and burning upon re-entry to earth, after liquid oxygen leaked from Falcon rocket's upper stage. The leak resulted from a crack in the liquid-oxygen system's pressure sensors. That was the first in-flight failure of Falcon 9 since 2015. (With inputs from agencies)

SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launches 23 Starlink satellites into orbit - Watch

<p>The scientists confirmed that Starlink's 20 satellites - which were released prematurely when the SpaceX rocket's failed launch took place last week - fell back towards Earth and got burned up in the upper atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, the experts have been investigating what went wrong and the rockets - which are likely to have caused the catastrophic failure - have been grounded till the investigation ends.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Falcon 9 rocket was launched by Space X on July 11 from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 10:35 pm&nbsp;ET. The launch took place one day after it was originally planned.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/house-for-astronauts-indian-startup-discusses-launch-of-space-habitat-by-2027-with-spacex-739929">House for astronauts? Indian startup discusses launch of 'space habitat' by 2027 with SpaceX</a></p>

<p>Initially, the launch took place as expected and the first stage of the rocket was successful when it was detached from the satellite-laden second stage before the landing of a drone ship in the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<h2><strong>Where did the SpaceX rocket go wrong?</strong></h2>

<p>The SpaceX rocket failed to complete its second stage because of a leak in liquid oxygen due to which it was stranded in a low orbit around Earth.</p>

<p>However, the rocket was able to release its payload in the second stage. The satellites were however stuck in an elliptical orbit around Earth which has a minimum altitude of 84 miles (135 kilometres), which is nearly half the height at which they normally operate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August</strong></p>

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<p>In a statement, SpaceX representatives wrote that the satellites were slowed by the atmospheric drag at this elevation and they started to fall back towards the Earth by nearly 3 miles (5 km).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At this level of drag, our maximum available thrust is unlikely to be enough to successfully raise the satellites," wrote SpaceX representatives. "As such, the satellites will re-enter Earth's atmosphere and fully demise," they added.</p>

<p>Space News reported that the company took control of most of the satellites and gave orders to burn them in the atmosphere at their maximum thrust known as "warp 9", in the last attempt to regain altitude.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The scientists confirmed that Starlink's 20 satellites - which were released prematurely when the SpaceX rocket's failed launch took place last week - fell back towards Earth and got burned up in the upper atmosphere.

The scientists confirmed that Starlink's 20 satellites - which were released prematurely when the SpaceX rocket's failed launch took place last week - fell back towards Earth and got burned up in the upper atmosphere. Currently, the experts have been investigating what went wrong and the rockets - which are likely to have caused the catastrophic failure - have been grounded till the investigation ends. A Falcon 9 rocket was launched by Space X on July 11 from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 10:35 pm ET. The launch took place one day after it was originally planned. Also Read: House for astronauts? Indian startup discusses launch of 'space habitat' by 2027 with SpaceX Initially, the launch took place as expected and the first stage of the rocket was successful when it was detached from the satellite-laden second stage before the landing of a drone ship in the Pacific Ocean. Where did the SpaceX rocket go wrong? The SpaceX rocket failed to complete its second stage because of a leak in liquid oxygen due to which it was stranded in a low orbit around Earth. However, the rocket was able to release its payload in the second stage. The satellites were however stuck in an elliptical orbit around Earth which has a minimum altitude of 84 miles (135 kilometres), which is nearly half the height at which they normally operate. Watch: Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August In a statement, SpaceX representatives wrote that the satellites were slowed by the atmospheric drag at this elevation and they started to fall back towards the Earth by nearly 3 miles (5 km). "At this level of drag, our maximum available thrust is unlikely to be enough to successfully raise the satellites," wrote SpaceX representatives. "As such, the satellites will re-enter Earth's atmosphere and fully demise," they added. Space News reported that the company took control of most of the satellites and gave orders to burn them in the atmosphere at their maximum thrust known as "warp 9", in the last attempt to regain altitude. (With inputs from agencies)

Starlink's 20 doomed satellites fall from space, burn in Earth's atmosphere

<p>SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket has been grounded by the US Federal Aviation Administration. The rocket failed after it broke apart in space on Thursday night (Jul&nbsp;11). This mishap was the rocket's first failure in over seven years.</p>

<p>The rocket was carrying 20 Starlink satellites to deploy them into Earth's low orbit. The initial stage of the launch was successful after which the first stage was to return to a drone ship.</p>

<p>About an hour after its launch at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, Falcon 9's second stage failed to complete its second burn and deployed the satellites into a lower orbital path than it was supposed to. Due to this, the satellites will return to Earth's atmosphere and burn up.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-telescope-unveils-breathtaking-image-of-merging-galaxies-740429">James Webb Telescope unveils breathtaking image of merging galaxies</a></strong></p>

<p>SpaceX's founder and CEO Elon Musk said that the software of the satellites is being updated to fire their onboard thrusters more than usual and avoid an intense re-entry into the atmosphere. According to Musk, the problem arose in the upper stage of the rocket.</p>

<p>"Unlike a Star Trek episode, this will probably not work, but it's worth a shot," Musk said.</p>

<p>The Falcon 9 has been ordered to stay grounded by the FAA until SpaceX completes an investigation, fixes the rocket, and gets approval. Depending on the complexity of the problem, the process could take some weeks or months.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/exclusive-indian-astronauts-us-training-from-august-spaceflight-by-year-end-740415">Exclusive: Indian astronauts' US training from August; spaceflight by year-end</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a post on X, the space company has said that the satellites are no threat to the public. They would appear in the sky as streaks of glow, but SpaceX has not estimated the time of their re-entry.</p>

<p>"Shooting stars," Musk replied to the SpaceX post.</p>

<p>The engineers at SpaceX had detected a leak of propellant liquid oxygen, after which the second stage failed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket has been grounded by the US Federal Aviation Administration. The rocket failed after it broke apart in space on Thursday night (Jul 11).

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket has been grounded by the US Federal Aviation Administration. The rocket failed after it broke apart in space on Thursday night (Jul 11). This mishap was the rocket's first failure in over seven years. The rocket was carrying 20 Starlink satellites to deploy them into Earth's low orbit. The initial stage of the launch was successful after which the first stage was to return to a drone ship. About an hour after its launch at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, Falcon 9's second stage failed to complete its second burn and deployed the satellites into a lower orbital path than it was supposed to. Due to this, the satellites will return to Earth's atmosphere and burn up. Also Read | James Webb Telescope unveils breathtaking image of merging galaxies SpaceX's founder and CEO Elon Musk said that the software of the satellites is being updated to fire their onboard thrusters more than usual and avoid an intense re-entry into the atmosphere. According to Musk, the problem arose in the upper stage of the rocket. "Unlike a Star Trek episode, this will probably not work, but it's worth a shot," Musk said. The Falcon 9 has been ordered to stay grounded by the FAA until SpaceX completes an investigation, fixes the rocket, and gets approval. Depending on the complexity of the problem, the process could take some weeks or months. Also Read | Exclusive: Indian astronauts' US training from August; spaceflight by year-end According to a post on X, the space company has said that the satellites are no threat to the public. They would appear in the sky as streaks of glow, but SpaceX has not estimated the time of their re-entry. "Shooting stars," Musk replied to the SpaceX post. The engineers at SpaceX had detected a leak of propellant liquid oxygen, after which the second stage failed. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk's SpaceX rocket grounded by US aviation regulator. Know why

<p>Comcast Business has entered into a strategic agreement with Starlink, one of the world's leading Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technologies, to help deliver advanced connectivity solutions for enterprise customers. The collaboration brings industry-leading satellite capabilities into the managed connectivity portfolio from Comcast Business, expecting to deliver faster and more reliable connectivity, especially within underserved locations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As the first major network provider to collaborate with Starlink, we’re excited to uniquely enhance our extensive managed connectivity portfolio with advanced satellite capabilities to better serve our enterprise customers,” said Jon Friedman, Sr. Vice President, Product Strategy and Operations, Comcast Business. “Starlink’s LEO satellite technology complements our existing network infrastructure, extends our reach and further enhances Comcast Business’ ability to deliver reliable connectivity solutions to enterprises with a human touch.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>For those enterprises with geographically spread-out locations, the problems associated with connectivity can be huge. These may include geographical limitations, scalability worries, and reliability problems, which are less common in high-density areas. What the Comcast Business-Starlink partnership brings together is the combined expertise, products, and services of managed connectivity solutions that are both reliable and innovative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It serves broadband internet users to a great many activities, including streaming, gaming, and video calls with a heavily invested low Earth orbit satellite constellation. Powered by advanced satellites, user hardware, and rich experience in spacecraft and on-orbital operations, Starlink provides high-speed internet to users globally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Starlink is excited to work with Comcast Business to deliver reliable connectivity to customers," said Jason Fritch, the Vice President of Starlink Enterprise Sales at SpaceX. "This agreement with a leading service provider is an acknowledgement of Starlink's growing role as a critical element in modern enterprise networks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In particular, it will be beneficial for enterprises with operations in remote locations or underserved areas, where most traditional network infrastructure is not available or falls below standards. The inclusion of Starlink technology in Comcast Business' product suite will help a business face the challenge of its last mile through better network redundancy and giving a true connectivity solution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Comcast Business-Starlink partnership is a massive step toward enterprise connectivity. This will be positioned to provide robust and reliable connectivity options for modern enterprises because it is a combination of extensive network infrastructure courtesy of Comcast Business and cutting-edge satellite technology from Starlink.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strategic partnership does not only seal the rising importance of satellite technology in enterprise networks; it also brings to the forefront Comcast Business' recommitment to a spirit of innovation and customer-centric solutions. Given the growing demand for highly reliable, high-speed internet access, this collaboration assumes a position of great importance in the future evolution of enterprise connectivity.&nbsp;</p>


Comcast Business has entered into a strategic agreement with Starlink, one of the world's leading Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technologies, to help deliver advanced connectivity solutions for enterprise customers.

Comcast Business has entered into a strategic agreement with Starlink, one of the world's leading Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technologies, to help deliver advanced connectivity solutions for enterprise customers. The collaboration brings industry-leading satellite capabilities into the managed connectivity portfolio from Comcast Business, expecting to deliver faster and more reliable connectivity, especially within underserved locations. “As the first major network provider to collaborate with Starlink, we’re excited to uniquely enhance our extensive managed connectivity portfolio with advanced satellite capabilities to better serve our enterprise customers,” said Jon Friedman, Sr. Vice President, Product Strategy and Operations, Comcast Business. “Starlink’s LEO satellite technology complements our existing network infrastructure, extends our reach and further enhances Comcast Business’ ability to deliver reliable connectivity solutions to enterprises with a human touch.” For those enterprises with geographically spread-out locations, the problems associated with connectivity can be huge. These may include geographical limitations, scalability worries, and reliability problems, which are less common in high-density areas. What the Comcast Business-Starlink partnership brings together is the combined expertise, products, and services of managed connectivity solutions that are both reliable and innovative. It serves broadband internet users to a great many activities, including streaming, gaming, and video calls with a heavily invested low Earth orbit satellite constellation. Powered by advanced satellites, user hardware, and rich experience in spacecraft and on-orbital operations, Starlink provides high-speed internet to users globally. "Starlink is excited to work with Comcast Business to deliver reliable connectivity to customers," said Jason Fritch, the Vice President of Starlink Enterprise Sales at SpaceX. "This agreement with a leading service provider is an acknowledgement of Starlink's growing role as a critical element in modern enterprise networks." In particular, it will be beneficial for enterprises with operations in remote locations or underserved areas, where most traditional network infrastructure is not available or falls below standards. The inclusion of Starlink technology in Comcast Business' product suite will help a business face the challenge of its last mile through better network redundancy and giving a true connectivity solution. The Comcast Business-Starlink partnership is a massive step toward enterprise connectivity. This will be positioned to provide robust and reliable connectivity options for modern enterprises because it is a combination of extensive network infrastructure courtesy of Comcast Business and cutting-edge satellite technology from Starlink. The strategic partnership does not only seal the rising importance of satellite technology in enterprise networks; it also brings to the forefront Comcast Business' recommitment to a spirit of innovation and customer-centric solutions. Given the growing demand for highly reliable, high-speed internet access, this collaboration assumes a position of great importance in the future evolution of enterprise connectivity.

Comcast Business and Starlink forge connectivity powerhouse

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Russia, North Korea fighting US hegemony: Putin - US-Israel differences grow over military aid - UN Rights reports slams Israel on Gaza ops - 'Won't let China choose Dalai Lama's successor' - Starlink satellites harm Ozone layer: Report

Russia, N Korea fighting US hegemony: Putin | Starlink satellites harm Ozone layer

<p>Humanity's curiosity to figure out if or not Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) over Earth's skies have extraterrestrial life forms knows no bounds. Are there aliens out there as Hollywood likes us to believe? Or back home in India, as Rakesh Roshan's 2003 film 'Koi... Mil Gaya' had us believe, are there indeed aliens shipped to Earth on a grand spaceship?&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far so long there is no evidence of their existence. Maybe they exist, maybe they don't. We do not know for sure. Until that ambiguity exists, the effort to find out the existence of an extraterrestrial life form remains.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now in the same league of curiosity, mysterious floating objects were spotted in the Tampa Bay area skies over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/evidence-of-aliens-scientists-find-gas-only-produced-by-life-on-distant-exoplanet-twice-as-big-as-earth-716192">An Earth-like planet? Tantalising proof of life on THIS exoplanet has scientists in 'shock'</a></strong></p>

<p>A video reportedly sent to a news platform from Betty Hicks in the Avon Park area of Tampa shows these mysterious objects floating around. The question arises, what are&nbsp;they? What do they look like?</p>

<p>According to reports, they basically look like a string of lights.</p>

<p>“It looks like shooting stars,” a child is heard saying in the video, according to WFLA</p>

<p>But what are those strings&nbsp;of lights?</p>

<p>Nobody knows for sure. But they could possibly be&nbsp;objects related to Starlink from a previous space launch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to findstarlink.com, a website that tracks SpaceX Starlinks shows three coordinates tracked at 9:17 pm, 9:22 pm&nbsp;and 9:26 pm&nbsp;in Tampa.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UFOs and aliens: What's the truth?</strong></p>

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<p>Last week, SpaceX deployed 23 Starlink satellites from Florida, which made their way around Earth.</p>

<p>SpaceX is targeting a 7:30 am&nbsp;(local time) launch of 23 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Tuesday (May 28) morning.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Humanity's curiosity to figure out if or not Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) over Earth's skies have extraterrestrial life forms knows no bounds. Are there aliens out there as Hollywood likes us to believe?

Humanity's curiosity to figure out if or not Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) over Earth's skies have extraterrestrial life forms knows no bounds. Are there aliens out there as Hollywood likes us to believe? Or back home in India, as Rakesh Roshan's 2003 film 'Koi... Mil Gaya' had us believe, are there indeed aliens shipped to Earth on a grand spaceship? So far so long there is no evidence of their existence. Maybe they exist, maybe they don't. We do not know for sure. Until that ambiguity exists, the effort to find out the existence of an extraterrestrial life form remains. Now in the same league of curiosity, mysterious floating objects were spotted in the Tampa Bay area skies over the weekend. Also read | An Earth-like planet? Tantalising proof of life on THIS exoplanet has scientists in 'shock' A video reportedly sent to a news platform from Betty Hicks in the Avon Park area of Tampa shows these mysterious objects floating around. The question arises, what are they? What do they look like? According to reports, they basically look like a string of lights. “It looks like shooting stars,” a child is heard saying in the video, according to WFLA But what are those strings of lights? Nobody knows for sure. But they could possibly be objects related to Starlink from a previous space launch. According to findstarlink.com, a website that tracks SpaceX Starlinks shows three coordinates tracked at 9:17 pm, 9:22 pm and 9:26 pm in Tampa. Also watch | UFOs and aliens: What's the truth? × Last week, SpaceX deployed 23 Starlink satellites from Florida, which made their way around Earth. SpaceX is targeting a 7:30 am (local time) launch of 23 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Tuesday (May 28) morning. (With inputs from agencies)

UFO debris or Starlink remains? What are these floating objects in Tampa Bay, Florida?

<p>Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, and Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin launched SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service on Sunday, intending to improve healthcare access in rural areas of the vast Indonesian archipelago.</p>

<p>Musk, who landed on the Indonesian resort island of Bali by private aircraft, attended the inauguration event at a community health centre in Denpasar, the province's capital. Musk, dressed in a green batik shirt, highlighted that Starlink would greatly improve internet connectivity for millions across Indonesia's more than 17,000 islands and three time zones.</p>

<p>"I'm very excited to bring connectivity to places that have low connectivity," Musk stated. "If you have access to the internet, you can learn anything."</p>

<p>On Sunday, the Starlink service was launched in three Indonesian health centres, two in Bali and one on the remote Maluku Island of Aru. A video presentation illustrated how high-speed internet may allow for real-time data input, assisting in the management of health conditions including stunting and malnutrition.</p>

<p>When asked about possible investments in Indonesia's electric vehicle business, Musk highlighted his current emphasis on Starlink. "We are focusing this event on Starlink and the benefits that connectivity brings to remote islands," he explained. "I think it's really to emphasise the importance of internet connectivity, how much of that can be a lifesaver."</p>

<p>Indonesia, which has over 270 million people, has been pursuing Musk's Tesla to help build its electric vehicle sector by utilising the country's enormous nickel resources. Musk is set to meet President Joko Widodo today&nbsp;and speak at the World Water Forum in Bali.</p>

<p>At the Bali inauguration, Communications Minister Budi Arie Setiadi revealed that Starlink is now commercially available, with a focus on outer and underdeveloped districts. Before the launch, Starlink was awarded a permit to operate as a retail internet service provider as well as a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) permit, according to Setiadi.</p>

<p>SpaceX's Starlink dominates the satellite internet business, with over 60 per cent of the 7,500 spacecraft orbiting Earth. Indonesia is the third Southeast Asian country that Starlink operates, after Malaysia and the Philippines. Malaysia licensed the service this year, while a Philippine company signed an agreement with SpaceX in 2022.</p>

<p>Starlink's global network includes a strong presence in Ukraine, where it serves military, healthcare, business, and humanitarian operations.</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from Reuters)</i></p>


Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, and Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin launched SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service on Sunday, intending to improve healthcare access in rural areas of the vast Indonesian archipelago.

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, and Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin launched SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service on Sunday, intending to improve healthcare access in rural areas of the vast Indonesian archipelago. Musk, who landed on the Indonesian resort island of Bali by private aircraft, attended the inauguration event at a community health centre in Denpasar, the province's capital. Musk, dressed in a green batik shirt, highlighted that Starlink would greatly improve internet connectivity for millions across Indonesia's more than 17,000 islands and three time zones. "I'm very excited to bring connectivity to places that have low connectivity," Musk stated. "If you have access to the internet, you can learn anything." On Sunday, the Starlink service was launched in three Indonesian health centres, two in Bali and one on the remote Maluku Island of Aru. A video presentation illustrated how high-speed internet may allow for real-time data input, assisting in the management of health conditions including stunting and malnutrition. When asked about possible investments in Indonesia's electric vehicle business, Musk highlighted his current emphasis on Starlink. "We are focusing this event on Starlink and the benefits that connectivity brings to remote islands," he explained. "I think it's really to emphasise the importance of internet connectivity, how much of that can be a lifesaver." Indonesia, which has over 270 million people, has been pursuing Musk's Tesla to help build its electric vehicle sector by utilising the country's enormous nickel resources. Musk is set to meet President Joko Widodo today and speak at the World Water Forum in Bali. At the Bali inauguration, Communications Minister Budi Arie Setiadi revealed that Starlink is now commercially available, with a focus on outer and underdeveloped districts. Before the launch, Starlink was awarded a permit to operate as a retail internet service provider as well as a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) permit, according to Setiadi. SpaceX's Starlink dominates the satellite internet business, with over 60 per cent of the 7,500 spacecraft orbiting Earth. Indonesia is the third Southeast Asian country that Starlink operates, after Malaysia and the Philippines. Malaysia licensed the service this year, while a Philippine company signed an agreement with SpaceX in 2022. Starlink's global network includes a strong presence in Ukraine, where it serves military, healthcare, business, and humanitarian operations. (With inputs from Reuters)

Elon Musk and Indonesian Health Minister launch SpaceX's Starlink Internet for remote health access

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<p>Billionaire Elon Musk would&nbsp;be visiting&nbsp;Indonesia to launch SpaceX's&nbsp;satellite unit Starlink on Sunday, the news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (May 16), citing&nbsp;two cabinet ministers. One of the ministers Luhut Pandjaitan told Reuters that Musk would launch Starlink in Bali&nbsp;in the presence of&nbsp;Indonesian President&nbsp;Joko Widodo.</p>

<p>This&nbsp;would be Musk's first in-person visit to the Asian country.&nbsp;Communications Minister Budi Arie Setiadi told the news agency that the Starlink launch would&nbsp;be held&nbsp;at a clinic in Bali's capital&nbsp;Denpasar, where&nbsp;Musk&nbsp;was scheduled&nbsp;to sign an agreement on connectivity for the health sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musks-starlink-satellites-disrupted-by-major-solar-storm-720466">Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites disrupted by major solar storm</a></strong></p>

<p>Musk would also be addressing&nbsp;the World Water Forum in Bali.</p>

<h2><strong>Starlink expected to provide services in remote&nbsp;areas</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in May,&nbsp;Starlink secured&nbsp;a permit&nbsp;to commercially offer its internet services in Indonesia.&nbsp;Starlink will cooperate with local network access providers&nbsp;and&nbsp;Indonesia expects the firm to provide internet services to its remote areas.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk reacts to equal representation act bill, says 'going to be even more crazy'</strong></p>

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<p>Starlink is the world's first and largest satellite constellation using a low Earth orbit to deliver broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls and more. "Leveraging advanced satellites and user hardware coupled with our deep experience with both spacecraft and on-orbit operations, Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency internet to users&nbsp;all over the world," SpaceX's website&nbsp;states.</p>

<h2><strong>How many countries currently use Starlink</strong></h2>

<p>Currently, Starlink is available in France, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Austria, Belgium,&nbsp; Denmark, Portugal, the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, the United States (US), Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brazil, and Chile.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SpaceX states that each satellite features a compact, flat-panel design that minimises volume, allowing for a dense launch stack to take full advantage of the launch capabilities of the Falcon 9 rocket.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Billionaire Elon Musk would be visiting Indonesia to launch SpaceX's satellite unit Starlink on Sunday, the news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (May 16), citing two cabinet ministers.

Billionaire Elon Musk would be visiting Indonesia to launch SpaceX's satellite unit Starlink on Sunday, the news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (May 16), citing two cabinet ministers. One of the ministers Luhut Pandjaitan told Reuters that Musk would launch Starlink in Bali in the presence of Indonesian President Joko Widodo. This would be Musk's first in-person visit to the Asian country. Communications Minister Budi Arie Setiadi told the news agency that the Starlink launch would be held at a clinic in Bali's capital Denpasar, where Musk was scheduled to sign an agreement on connectivity for the health sector. Also read | Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites disrupted by major solar storm Musk would also be addressing the World Water Forum in Bali. Starlink expected to provide services in remote areas Earlier in May, Starlink secured a permit to commercially offer its internet services in Indonesia. Starlink will cooperate with local network access providers and Indonesia expects the firm to provide internet services to its remote areas. Also watch | Elon Musk reacts to equal representation act bill, says 'going to be even more crazy' × Starlink is the world's first and largest satellite constellation using a low Earth orbit to deliver broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls and more. "Leveraging advanced satellites and user hardware coupled with our deep experience with both spacecraft and on-orbit operations, Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency internet to users all over the world," SpaceX's website states. How many countries currently use Starlink Currently, Starlink is available in France, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Portugal, the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, the United States (US), Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brazil, and Chile. SpaceX states that each satellite features a compact, flat-panel design that minimises volume, allowing for a dense launch stack to take full advantage of the launch capabilities of the Falcon 9 rocket. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk to launch Starlink satellite in Indonesia on Sunday

<p>Starlink, the satellite arm of Elon Musk's SpaceX, warned on Saturday of a "degraded service" as the Earth is battered by the biggest geomagnetic storm due to solar activity in two decades.</p>

<p>Starlink owns around 60 per cent&nbsp;of the roughly 7,500 satellites orbiting Earth and is a dominant player in satellite internet.</p>

<p>Musk said earlier in a post on X that Starlink satellites were under a lot of pressure due to the geomagnetic storm, but were holding up so far.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-claims-aliens-have-never-visited-earth-and-heres-the-proof-719996">Also read |&nbsp;Elon Musk cites simple proof to assert his belief that aliens don't exist</a></p>

<p>The US&nbsp;National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has said the storm is the biggest since October 2003 and likely to persist over the weekend, posing risks to navigation systems, power grids, and satellite navigation, among other services.</p>

<p>The thousands of Starlink satellites in low-Earth orbit use inter-satellite laser links to pass data between one another in space at the speed of light, allowing the network to offer internet coverage around the world.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk's Neuralink brain implant malfunctioned weeks post-operation</strong></p>

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Starlink, the satellite arm of Elon Musk's SpaceX, warned on Saturday of a "degraded service" as the Earth is battered by the biggest geomagnetic storm due to solar activity in two decades.

Starlink, the satellite arm of Elon Musk's SpaceX, warned on Saturday of a "degraded service" as the Earth is battered by the biggest geomagnetic storm due to solar activity in two decades. Starlink owns around 60 per cent of the roughly 7,500 satellites orbiting Earth and is a dominant player in satellite internet. Musk said earlier in a post on X that Starlink satellites were under a lot of pressure due to the geomagnetic storm, but were holding up so far. Also read | Elon Musk cites simple proof to assert his belief that aliens don't exist The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has said the storm is the biggest since October 2003 and likely to persist over the weekend, posing risks to navigation systems, power grids, and satellite navigation, among other services. The thousands of Starlink satellites in low-Earth orbit use inter-satellite laser links to pass data between one another in space at the speed of light, allowing the network to offer internet coverage around the world. Also watch | Elon Musk's Neuralink brain implant malfunctioned weeks post-operation

Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites disrupted by major solar storm

<p>With the launch of its Starliner spaceship on Monday night, which will finally send two NASA astronauts into orbit, Boeing's spaceflight programme might achieve a significant milestone.</p>

<p>The Crew Flight Test mission is scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on Monday at 10:34 pm&nbsp;ET. The space agency says that live streaming of the ceremony will start on NASA channels on Monday at 6:30 pm&nbsp;ET.</p>

<p>The event has been planned for a decade, and it marks the completion of Boeing's efforts to create a spaceship capable of transporting humans to and from the International Space Station as part of NASA's Commercial Crew Programme.</p>

<p>Starliner's journey to the launchpad has been hampered by expensive failures, test flight issues, and development hold-ups. In the meanwhile, SpaceX, Boeing's competitor in NASA's commercial crew programme, has emerged as the preferred astronaut transportation provider. At last, NASA and Boeing have decided that the Starliner spaceship is all set for the most important test yet which is letting astronauts take a spin around the planet.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/science/asteroid-dinkineshs-duo-selam-spotted-by-nasas-lucy-spacecraft-turns-out-to-be-cosmic-toddler-717757" hreflang="en">Asteroid Dinkinesh's duo Selam spotted by NASA's Lucy spacecraft turns out to be cosmic toddler</a></strong></p>

<p>Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, two veteran NASA astronauts, will fly on Monday's flight to the International Space Station for a week.</p>

<p>A number of experiments will be carried out by Wilmore and Williams during their journey, such as a brief takeover of the autonomous spacecraft's controls and an assessment of how the ship functions for astronauts. For Boeing, a successful flight might represent a turning point for the spaceflight program and the company as a whole.</p>

<p>“We’ve had a couple (of) launch dates, and we’ve been like, ‘OK, we’re ready to go,’” Williams said at a news conference. “But now it’s like, heck — five days. It is actually, finally real, and I sort of have to pinch myself a little bit to understand, actually, we’re going.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


With the launch of its Starliner spaceship on Monday night, which will finally send two NASA astronauts into orbit, Boeing's spaceflight programme might achieve a significant milestone.

With the launch of its Starliner spaceship on Monday night, which will finally send two NASA astronauts into orbit, Boeing's spaceflight programme might achieve a significant milestone. The Crew Flight Test mission is scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on Monday at 10:34 pm ET. The space agency says that live streaming of the ceremony will start on NASA channels on Monday at 6:30 pm ET. The event has been planned for a decade, and it marks the completion of Boeing's efforts to create a spaceship capable of transporting humans to and from the International Space Station as part of NASA's Commercial Crew Programme. Starliner's journey to the launchpad has been hampered by expensive failures, test flight issues, and development hold-ups. In the meanwhile, SpaceX, Boeing's competitor in NASA's commercial crew programme, has emerged as the preferred astronaut transportation provider. At last, NASA and Boeing have decided that the Starliner spaceship is all set for the most important test yet which is letting astronauts take a spin around the planet. Also read: Asteroid Dinkinesh's duo Selam spotted by NASA's Lucy spacecraft turns out to be cosmic toddler Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, two veteran NASA astronauts, will fly on Monday's flight to the International Space Station for a week. A number of experiments will be carried out by Wilmore and Williams during their journey, such as a brief takeover of the autonomous spacecraft's controls and an assessment of how the ship functions for astronauts. For Boeing, a successful flight might represent a turning point for the spaceflight program and the company as a whole. “We’ve had a couple (of) launch dates, and we’ve been like, ‘OK, we’re ready to go,’” Williams said at a news conference. “But now it’s like, heck — five days. It is actually, finally real, and I sort of have to pinch myself a little bit to understand, actually, we’re going.” (With inputs from agencies)

Sunita Williams goes to space again with Boeing Starliner's launch of first crewed mission: How to watch

<p>Elon Musk's Starlink satellites vaunt of their efficiency but it appears that the company is doing more harm to the planet than good. A former physicist associated with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) claimed that Musk's company is exposing everyone on Earth to deadly cosmic rays.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SpaceX has launched multiple Starlink satellites into space over the past few years. The company says that its satellites operate in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO), claiming that it results in lower latency and faster data transfer rates. The company says it has over 5,500 Starlink satellites in orbit. Notably, Musk is planning to launch thousands more in the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the physicist, Dr Sierra Solter-Hunt, warned that cheap satellite megaconstellations like Musk's Starlink could disrupt Earth's magnetosphere.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/devil-comet-makes-spectacular-return-after-7-decades-graces-australian-skies-713033">Devil Comet makes spectacular return after 7 decades, graces Australian skies</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>She mentioned in a study, submitted December 6, 2023, that as per estimates, Musk's space company is burning up over 2,755 lbs (1.3 tons) of wireless internet satellite junk into Earth's atmosphere per hour. This will lead to the formation of a metal layer known as "conductive particulate" in orbit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study mentioned that the mass of such particles left behind from the worldwide distribution of re-entry satellites is already billions of times greater than the mass of the Van Allen radiation belt, which is a zone of energetic charged particles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most of the particles originate from the solar wind, that are captured by and held around a planet by that planet's magnetosphere. Earth has two such belts, and sometimes others may be temporarily created.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The magnetic field holds Earth's atmosphere together. It also protects from harmful cosmic radiation and charged solar particles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-life-may-be-hiding-in-purple-hue-of-universe-scientists-712945">Alien life may be hiding in purple hue of universe: Scientists</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"I was very surprised. No one has given much research to the accumulation of metal dust from the space industry," Dr Solter-Hunt told Daily Mail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The absence of a magnetic field is the reason why Mars is inhabitable. In her study, she said that the accumulation of highly conductive metal trash could lead to "atmospheric stripping". This is the phenomenon with Mars and Mercury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Dr Solter-Hunt, there are around 10,000 satellites, and the number is likely to increase in 10 to 15 years. She warned, "By the time we get to 100,000 I think it could be too late."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study said, "Satellite re-entries may create a global band of plasma dust with a charge higher than the rest of the magnetosphere. Therefore, perturbation of the magnetosphere from conductive satellites and their plasma dust layer should be expected and should be a field of intensive research."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study added that human activity is not only impacting the atmosphere, it is clearly impacting the ionosphere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first study which questioned Starlink satellites in orbit, another study published in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics on August 10, 2023, claimed that the satellites are also creating a hurdle for humans to explore space.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Elon Musk's Starlink satellites vaunt of their efficiency but it appears that the company is doing more harm to the planet than good. A former physicist associated with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) claimed that Musk's company is exposing everyone on Earth to deadly cosmic rays.

Elon Musk's Starlink satellites vaunt of their efficiency but it appears that the company is doing more harm to the planet than good. A former physicist associated with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) claimed that Musk's company is exposing everyone on Earth to deadly cosmic rays. SpaceX has launched multiple Starlink satellites into space over the past few years. The company says that its satellites operate in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO), claiming that it results in lower latency and faster data transfer rates. The company says it has over 5,500 Starlink satellites in orbit. Notably, Musk is planning to launch thousands more in the future. But the physicist, Dr Sierra Solter-Hunt, warned that cheap satellite megaconstellations like Musk's Starlink could disrupt Earth's magnetosphere. Also read: Devil Comet makes spectacular return after 7 decades, graces Australian skies She mentioned in a study, submitted December 6, 2023, that as per estimates, Musk's space company is burning up over 2,755 lbs (1.3 tons) of wireless internet satellite junk into Earth's atmosphere per hour. This will lead to the formation of a metal layer known as "conductive particulate" in orbit. The study mentioned that the mass of such particles left behind from the worldwide distribution of re-entry satellites is already billions of times greater than the mass of the Van Allen radiation belt, which is a zone of energetic charged particles. Most of the particles originate from the solar wind, that are captured by and held around a planet by that planet's magnetosphere. Earth has two such belts, and sometimes others may be temporarily created. The magnetic field holds Earth's atmosphere together. It also protects from harmful cosmic radiation and charged solar particles. Also read: Alien life may be hiding in purple hue of universe: Scientists "I was very surprised. No one has given much research to the accumulation of metal dust from the space industry," Dr Solter-Hunt told Daily Mail. The absence of a magnetic field is the reason why Mars is inhabitable. In her study, she said that the accumulation of highly conductive metal trash could lead to "atmospheric stripping". This is the phenomenon with Mars and Mercury. According to Dr Solter-Hunt, there are around 10,000 satellites, and the number is likely to increase in 10 to 15 years. She warned, "By the time we get to 100,000 I think it could be too late." The study said, "Satellite re-entries may create a global band of plasma dust with a charge higher than the rest of the magnetosphere. Therefore, perturbation of the magnetosphere from conductive satellites and their plasma dust layer should be expected and should be a field of intensive research." The study added that human activity is not only impacting the atmosphere, it is clearly impacting the ionosphere. This is not the first study which questioned Starlink satellites in orbit, another study published in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics on August 10, 2023, claimed that the satellites are also creating a hurdle for humans to explore space. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites could be harming Earth’s magnetic field

<p>Ukraine claimed in February that the Russian forces in occupied regions have been using Starlink terminals produced by Elon Musk's SpaceX for satellite internet. Kyiv's main military intelligence agency had also claimed that it appeared to look like the start of their "systemic" application.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to the previous claims, a report by The Wall Street Journal highlighted how Starlink is being misused by middlemen and agents in sensitive regions through the black market.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the Russia-Ukraine war started in February 2022, the terminals were sent to aid Ukraine. It emerged to be a vital system that helped Kyiv in battlefield communications.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-airstrikes-hit-ukraines-kharkiv-region-killing-3-709881">Russian airstrikes hit Ukraine's Kharkiv region, killing 3</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>But Ukraine has claimed that the terminals were being used by units like Russia's 83rd Air Assault Brigade, which remained active in several ravaged regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Starlink maintained that it does not provide service to Russia's government or military. The Kremlin also once said that Russia never certified the usage of terminals, hence they weren't being used. But the easy and illegitimate access to its service might put Musk in a difficult spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Starlink had also posted a statement on social media platform X, stating: "If SpaceX obtains knowledge that a Starlink terminal is being used by a sanctioned or unauthorised party, we investigate the claim and take actions to deactivate the terminal if confirmed."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/teslas-elon-musk-to-meet-pm-modi-in-india-may-announce-investment-plans-report-709862">Tesla's Elon Musk to meet PM Modi in India, may announce investment plans: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia blames West and Kyiv for attack&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Ukraine had claimed without evidence that Russian forces obtained Starlink satellite terminals illicitly from third countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the WSJ report mentioned that a Russian online retailer told the newspaper that his business saw a boost by selling dozens of Starlink internet terminals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported, the Moscow-based salesman told the paper that he received orders from a region recently annexed by Russia, the man who was interviewed identified himself only as Oleg and referred to the region as the "new territories". He claimed that the terminals were for "use by the military" and he said volunteers delivered the equipment to Russian soldiers in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not just Ukraine, Starlink terminals are also being bought and sold on the black market in Sudan. The report claimed that the Sudanese dealers resell units to the Rapid Support Forces, which is a paramilitary group.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Ukraine claimed in February that the Russian forces in occupied regions have been using Starlink terminals produced by Elon Musk's SpaceX for satellite internet.

Ukraine claimed in February that the Russian forces in occupied regions have been using Starlink terminals produced by Elon Musk's SpaceX for satellite internet. Kyiv's main military intelligence agency had also claimed that it appeared to look like the start of their "systemic" application. In addition to the previous claims, a report by The Wall Street Journal highlighted how Starlink is being misused by middlemen and agents in sensitive regions through the black market. When the Russia-Ukraine war started in February 2022, the terminals were sent to aid Ukraine. It emerged to be a vital system that helped Kyiv in battlefield communications. Also read: Russian airstrikes hit Ukraine's Kharkiv region, killing 3 But Ukraine has claimed that the terminals were being used by units like Russia's 83rd Air Assault Brigade, which remained active in several ravaged regions. Starlink maintained that it does not provide service to Russia's government or military. The Kremlin also once said that Russia never certified the usage of terminals, hence they weren't being used. But the easy and illegitimate access to its service might put Musk in a difficult spot. Starlink had also posted a statement on social media platform X, stating: "If SpaceX obtains knowledge that a Starlink terminal is being used by a sanctioned or unauthorised party, we investigate the claim and take actions to deactivate the terminal if confirmed." Also read: Tesla's Elon Musk to meet PM Modi in India, may announce investment plans: Report Watch: Russia blames West and Kyiv for attack × Ukraine had claimed without evidence that Russian forces obtained Starlink satellite terminals illicitly from third countries. But the WSJ report mentioned that a Russian online retailer told the newspaper that his business saw a boost by selling dozens of Starlink internet terminals. As reported, the Moscow-based salesman told the paper that he received orders from a region recently annexed by Russia, the man who was interviewed identified himself only as Oleg and referred to the region as the "new territories". He claimed that the terminals were for "use by the military" and he said volunteers delivered the equipment to Russian soldiers in Ukraine. Not just Ukraine, Starlink terminals are also being bought and sold on the black market in Sudan. The report claimed that the Sudanese dealers resell units to the Rapid Support Forces, which is a paramilitary group. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Are Elon Musk’s Starlink terminals helping Russia in war against Ukraine?

<p>In a major&nbsp;"leap" forward for its Starlink project, SpaceX launched a fresh set of 23 satellites into orbit from Florida's Space Coast on leap year day on Thursday (Feb 29), marking the company's 11th flight for this Falcon 9 first stage. The launched satellites were SpaceX's Starlink Version 2 Mini satellites. The rocket, carrying 23 Starlink satellites, took off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On Thursday, February 29 at 10:30 a.m. ET, Falcon 9 launched 23 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This was the 11th flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched CRS-26, OneWeb Launch 16, Intelsat IS-40e, O3b mPOWER, Ovzon 3, and now six Starlink missions," SpaceX said in a statement following the launch.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Watch Falcon 9 launch 23 <a href="https://twitter.com/Starlink?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Starlink</a> satellites to orbit <a href="https://t.co/HPRiGw5Eqm">https://t.co/HPRiGw5Eqm</a></p>
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1763223758473707546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The mission, dubbed Starlink 6-40, followed the postponement of SpaceX's Crew-8 mission, which aimed to ferry astronauts to the International Space Station.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/boeing-agrees-to-51-million-settlement-over-us-export-violations-including-breaches-in-china-695465">Boeing agrees to $51 million settlement over US export violations, including breaches in China</a></p>

<p>Rough offshore weather prompted the delay. Crew-8 was then rescheduled for Saturday (March 2) night.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Falcon 9 booster returns to Earth&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Falcon 9 rocket, powered by SpaceX's Merlin engines, has become the workhorse of the company's launch fleet, conducting numerous successful missions to deploy satellites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-irs-launches-crackdown-on-125000-unfiled-high-income-tax-returns-695453">US IRS launches crackdown on 125,000 unfiled high-income tax returns</a></p>

<p>The Falcon 9 booster, after this latest launch, successfully returned to Earth just over 8 minutes post-launch. It landed at sea on the drone ship Just Read The Instructions, paving the way for its eventual reuse.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/airlines-see-strong-travel-demand-recovery-695444">Airlines see strong travel demand recovery</a></strong></p>

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<p>Starlink satellites are part of SpaceX's ambitious project to create a global broadband network capable of delivering high-speed internet to users virtually anywhere on the planet, including rural and remote regions where traditional internet infrastructure is unavailable or unreliable.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major "leap" forward for its Starlink project, SpaceX launched a fresh set of 23 satellites into orbit from Florida's Space Coast on leap year day on Thursday (Feb 29), marking the company's 11th flight for this Falcon 9 first stage.

In a major "leap" forward for its Starlink project, SpaceX launched a fresh set of 23 satellites into orbit from Florida's Space Coast on leap year day on Thursday (Feb 29), marking the company's 11th flight for this Falcon 9 first stage. The launched satellites were SpaceX's Starlink Version 2 Mini satellites. The rocket, carrying 23 Starlink satellites, took off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. "On Thursday, February 29 at 10:30 a.m. ET, Falcon 9 launched 23 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This was the 11th flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched CRS-26, OneWeb Launch 16, Intelsat IS-40e, O3b mPOWER, Ovzon 3, and now six Starlink missions," SpaceX said in a statement following the launch. Watch Falcon 9 launch 23 @Starlink satellites to orbit https://t.co/HPRiGw5Eqm — SpaceX (@SpaceX) February 29, 2024 × The mission, dubbed Starlink 6-40, followed the postponement of SpaceX's Crew-8 mission, which aimed to ferry astronauts to the International Space Station. Also Read | Boeing agrees to $51 million settlement over US export violations, including breaches in China Rough offshore weather prompted the delay. Crew-8 was then rescheduled for Saturday (March 2) night. Falcon 9 booster returns to Earth The Falcon 9 rocket, powered by SpaceX's Merlin engines, has become the workhorse of the company's launch fleet, conducting numerous successful missions to deploy satellites. Also Read | US IRS launches crackdown on 125,000 unfiled high-income tax returns The Falcon 9 booster, after this latest launch, successfully returned to Earth just over 8 minutes post-launch. It landed at sea on the drone ship Just Read The Instructions, paving the way for its eventual reuse. Watch | Airlines see strong travel demand recovery × Starlink satellites are part of SpaceX's ambitious project to create a global broadband network capable of delivering high-speed internet to users virtually anywhere on the planet, including rural and remote regions where traditional internet infrastructure is unavailable or unreliable. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | SpaceX launches 23 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit on leap day

<p>Norwegian Member of Parliament Marius Nilsen has nominated billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing Musk's unwavering support for dialogue, free speech, and global connectivity, as per a Politico report.&nbsp;Nilsen highlighted Musk's contributions through his tech companies, including X and Tesla, which have aimed to improve societies and enhance communication worldwide.</p>

<p>Nilsen expressed gratitude to Musk for providing Starlink satellite internet service to Ukraine following the Russian invasion, stressing&nbsp;how Musk's ventures have fostered a more interconnected and secure world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The multitude of tech companies Musk has founded, owns or runs, aimed at bettering societies, increasing knowledge of both earth and space, in addition to enabling communication and connectivity globally... has helped make the world a more connected and safer place," Mr Nilsen told local outlet&nbsp;Agderposten.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk's SpaceX emerges as major US government contractor</strong></p>

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<p>As a self-proclaimed "free speech absolutist," Musk has always claimed to be an upholder of free speech which led him to&nbsp;reinstate suspended accounts like those of Andrew Tate and Donald Trump, and championing open dialogue.</p>

<p>Beyond X and Tesla, Musk leads SpaceX, The Boring Company, and Neuralink.&nbsp;With a staggering net worth of $209 billion as of February 21, Musk's influence spans various industries, driving innovation and technological advancement on a global scale,&nbsp;according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/neuralinks-first-human-patient-can-now-control-computer-mouse-with-thoughts-musk-confirms-692144">Also read |&nbsp;Neuralink's first human patient can now control computer mouse with thoughts, Musk confirms</a></p>

<p>In a parallel development, another Norwegian figure nominated WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange for the Nobel Peace Prize.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Norwegian Member of Parliament Marius Nilsen has nominated billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing Musk's unwavering support for dialogue, free speech, and global connectivity, as per a Politico report.

Norwegian Member of Parliament Marius Nilsen has nominated billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing Musk's unwavering support for dialogue, free speech, and global connectivity, as per a Politico report. Nilsen highlighted Musk's contributions through his tech companies, including X and Tesla, which have aimed to improve societies and enhance communication worldwide. Nilsen expressed gratitude to Musk for providing Starlink satellite internet service to Ukraine following the Russian invasion, stressing how Musk's ventures have fostered a more interconnected and secure world. "The multitude of tech companies Musk has founded, owns or runs, aimed at bettering societies, increasing knowledge of both earth and space, in addition to enabling communication and connectivity globally... has helped make the world a more connected and safer place," Mr Nilsen told local outlet Agderposten. Also watch | Elon Musk's SpaceX emerges as major US government contractor As a self-proclaimed "free speech absolutist," Musk has always claimed to be an upholder of free speech which led him to reinstate suspended accounts like those of Andrew Tate and Donald Trump, and championing open dialogue. Beyond X and Tesla, Musk leads SpaceX, The Boring Company, and Neuralink. With a staggering net worth of $209 billion as of February 21, Musk's influence spans various industries, driving innovation and technological advancement on a global scale, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Also read | Neuralink's first human patient can now control computer mouse with thoughts, Musk confirms In a parallel development, another Norwegian figure nominated WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange for the Nobel Peace Prize. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk nominated for Nobel Peace Prize by Norwegian lawmaker 'for advocacy of free speech'

Elon Musk's SpaceX is deepening its ties with U.S. intelligence and military agencies through classified contracts ranging in the billions of dollars.

SpaceX forges tighter links with US spy and military agencies

<p>Russian forces in occupied Ukraine are using terminals of Elon Musk’s satellite internet service Starlink, said Kyiv’s main military intelligence agency, on Sunday (Feb 11). The allegation by Ukrainian forces also comes amid media reports that Russia has been receiving Starlink internet terminals via an intermediary in the Middle East amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Systemic nature’</strong></h2>

<p>“Cases of the Russian occupiers’ use of the given devices have been registered. It is beginning to take on a systemic nature,” the Ukrainian defence ministry’s Main Directorate of Intelligence (GUR) quoted spokesman Andriy Yusov as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In its post on Telegram, GUR also posted an audio clip of what it said was an exchange between two Russian soldiers that was intercepted by its forces, claiming it as proof of Starlink’s “systemic” use in the Russian-occupied territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian intelligence agency said Starlink terminals are being used by Russia’s 83rd Air Assault Brigade, which is fighting near the embattled towns of Klishchiivka and Andriivka in the partially occupied eastern region of Donetsk.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacexs-starlink-secures-pentagon-contract-to-provide-satellite-services-to-ukraine-599279">SpaceX's Starlink secures Pentagon contract to provide satellite services to Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>The Starlink terminals were rushed to help Ukraine during the initial days of the Russian invasion in February 2022 and have played a significant role in Kyiv’s battlefield communications.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following media reports last week, Musk’s aerospace company, SpaceX, has said that it does not do any business with Russia’s government or military.</p>

<h2><strong>How is Russia accessing Starlink?</strong></h2>

<p>Starlink is the world’s first and largest satellite constellation which involves more than 2,000 satellites orbiting the Earth in communication with thousands of terminals on the ground to deliver broadband internet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The audio clip which GUR posted on Telegram as evidence is said to be an exchange between two Russian soldiers discussing setting up the Starlink terminals. However, the Ukrainian agency did not say how Moscow’s forces were able to procure the terminals or if they were from another country or taken from Kyiv’s forces.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-committed-evil-ukrainian-official-slams-spacex-ceo-over-shutting-down-starlink-access-634030">‘Elon Musk committed evil’: Ukrainian official slams SpaceX CEO over shutting down Starlink access</a></strong></p>

<p>A report by Newsweek, an American weekly news magazine, citing a Ukrainian journalist and soldier said Russia’s military began delivering Starlink terminals en masse in occupied territories, referring to four regions of Ukraine that were illegally annexed by Russia in 2022 – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>SpaceX responds to reports</strong></h2>

<p>In response to the media reports last week, Starlink, in a statement on X said, “Starlink is not active in Russia, meaning service will not work in that country. SpaceX has never sold or marketed Starlink in Russia, nor has it shipped equipment to locations in Russia.”</p>

<p>“If SpaceX obtains knowledge that a Starlink terminal is being used by a sanctioned or unauthorized party, we investigate the claim and take actions to deactivate the terminal if confirmed,” it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


Russian forces in occupied Ukraine are using terminals of Elon Musk’s satellite internet service Starlink, said Kyiv’s main military intelligence agency, on Sunday (Feb 11).

Russian forces in occupied Ukraine are using terminals of Elon Musk’s satellite internet service Starlink, said Kyiv’s main military intelligence agency, on Sunday (Feb 11). The allegation by Ukrainian forces also comes amid media reports that Russia has been receiving Starlink internet terminals via an intermediary in the Middle East amid the ongoing war. ‘Systemic nature’ “Cases of the Russian occupiers’ use of the given devices have been registered. It is beginning to take on a systemic nature,” the Ukrainian defence ministry’s Main Directorate of Intelligence (GUR) quoted spokesman Andriy Yusov as saying. In its post on Telegram, GUR also posted an audio clip of what it said was an exchange between two Russian soldiers that was intercepted by its forces, claiming it as proof of Starlink’s “systemic” use in the Russian-occupied territory. The Ukrainian intelligence agency said Starlink terminals are being used by Russia’s 83rd Air Assault Brigade, which is fighting near the embattled towns of Klishchiivka and Andriivka in the partially occupied eastern region of Donetsk. ALSO READ | SpaceX's Starlink secures Pentagon contract to provide satellite services to Ukraine The Starlink terminals were rushed to help Ukraine during the initial days of the Russian invasion in February 2022 and have played a significant role in Kyiv’s battlefield communications. Following media reports last week, Musk’s aerospace company, SpaceX, has said that it does not do any business with Russia’s government or military. How is Russia accessing Starlink? Starlink is the world’s first and largest satellite constellation which involves more than 2,000 satellites orbiting the Earth in communication with thousands of terminals on the ground to deliver broadband internet. The audio clip which GUR posted on Telegram as evidence is said to be an exchange between two Russian soldiers discussing setting up the Starlink terminals. However, the Ukrainian agency did not say how Moscow’s forces were able to procure the terminals or if they were from another country or taken from Kyiv’s forces. ALSO READ | ‘Elon Musk committed evil’: Ukrainian official slams SpaceX CEO over shutting down Starlink access A report by Newsweek, an American weekly news magazine, citing a Ukrainian journalist and soldier said Russia’s military began delivering Starlink terminals en masse in occupied territories, referring to four regions of Ukraine that were illegally annexed by Russia in 2022 – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. SpaceX responds to reports In response to the media reports last week, Starlink, in a statement on X said, “Starlink is not active in Russia, meaning service will not work in that country. SpaceX has never sold or marketed Starlink in Russia, nor has it shipped equipment to locations in Russia.” “If SpaceX obtains knowledge that a Starlink terminal is being used by a sanctioned or unauthorized party, we investigate the claim and take actions to deactivate the terminal if confirmed,” it added. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russian forces in occupied regions are using Musk’s Starlink, claims Ukraine

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">In a significant development, Elon Musk's Starlink is on the brink of securing approval to launch space-based broadband services in India, with reports suggesting that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) may issue a Letter of Intent (LoI) by the end of this month. According to sources, Starlink's recent clarification to the Department for Promotion of Industry &amp; Internal Trade (DPIIT) has paved the way for this imminent approval.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The ET Telecom report quotes an insider stating, "Starlink replied to the Department for Promotion of Industry &amp; Internal Trade, and in the next few days or by the end of this month, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) may issue a Letter of Intent (LoI) to Starlink." Meanwhile, Moneycontrol, citing its sources, suggests that the DoT could extend this crucial approval to Starlink as early as Wednesday.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Both reports highlight the preparation of an approval letter by telecom secretary Neeraj Mittal and communications secretary Ashwini Vaishnaw, expected to be finalized by next week. However, it is noted that both officials are currently abroad, with Mittal attending the PanIIT 2024 event in Washington DC and Vaishnaw participating in the World Economic Forum in Davos.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Starlink initiated its journey in India by applying for a global mobile personal communication by satellite services (GMPCS) license in November 2022. If granted, this license will position Starlink as the third company in India, following Reliance Jio and OneWeb, to secure such authorisation. The GMPCS license would empower Starlink to provide messaging services, voice services, and broadband to individuals and organisations across India.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">However, in addition to government approval, Satcom players, including Starlink, must obtain clearance from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), the designated single-window agency for space activity approvals in India since 2023. The subsequent step involves spectrum allotment by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">It's worth noting that Starlink faced criticism from the Telecom Ministry in late 2021 for accepting advance payments from subscribers without holding the necessary license. The Ministry directed Starlink to refund the money to approximately 5,000 pre-ordered customers in India.<o:p></o:p></span></p>


In a significant development, Elon Musk's Starlink is on the brink of securing approval to launch space-based broadband services in India, with reports suggesting that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) may issue a Letter of Intent (LoI) by the end of this month.

In a significant development, Elon Musk's Starlink is on the brink of securing approval to launch space-based broadband services in India, with reports suggesting that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) may issue a Letter of Intent (LoI) by the end of this month. According to sources, Starlink's recent clarification to the Department for Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade (DPIIT) has paved the way for this imminent approval. The ET Telecom report quotes an insider stating, "Starlink replied to the Department for Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade, and in the next few days or by the end of this month, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) may issue a Letter of Intent (LoI) to Starlink." Meanwhile, Moneycontrol, citing its sources, suggests that the DoT could extend this crucial approval to Starlink as early as Wednesday. Both reports highlight the preparation of an approval letter by telecom secretary Neeraj Mittal and communications secretary Ashwini Vaishnaw, expected to be finalized by next week. However, it is noted that both officials are currently abroad, with Mittal attending the PanIIT 2024 event in Washington DC and Vaishnaw participating in the World Economic Forum in Davos. Starlink initiated its journey in India by applying for a global mobile personal communication by satellite services (GMPCS) license in November 2022. If granted, this license will position Starlink as the third company in India, following Reliance Jio and OneWeb, to secure such authorisation. The GMPCS license would empower Starlink to provide messaging services, voice services, and broadband to individuals and organisations across India. However, in addition to government approval, Satcom players, including Starlink, must obtain clearance from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), the designated single-window agency for space activity approvals in India since 2023. The subsequent step involves spectrum allotment by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). It's worth noting that Starlink faced criticism from the Telecom Ministry in late 2021 for accepting advance payments from subscribers without holding the necessary license. The Ministry directed Starlink to refund the money to approximately 5,000 pre-ordered customers in India.

Elon Musk's Starlink nears approval for space broadband services in India

<p>Elon Musk's Starlink is reportedly on the brink of securing regulatory approval to roll out its space-based broadband services in India. According to initial reports, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has sought clarification from Starlink about its shareholding pattern. The response from Starlink has reportedly addressed these queries.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-starlink-the-ambitious-global-internet-service-of-elon-musk-652569">Explained | What is Starlink, the ambitious global internet service of Elon Musk?</a></strong></p>

<p>Sources close to the matter cited by the Economic Times suggest that Starlink's response has set the stage for the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to potentially issue a Letter of Intent (LoI) within the next few days, or at the latest, by the end of the current month. The LoI is seen as a crucial step towards formalising Starlink's entry into the Indian market.</p>

<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>As per industry insiders, cited by financial news publications, the Indian Department of Telecommunications is actively engaged in drafting a comprehensive note for the approval process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This note is anticipated to be presented to Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Minister of Communications, and Neeraj Mittal, the secretary of the telecommunications department, for their review and approval.</p>

<p>Upon receiving the green light from both Vaishnaw and Mittal, the Satellite Communications Wing (SCW) within the telecommunications department will grant the necessary permissions for&nbsp;SpaceX, the company behind Starlink, to commence operations within India.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Space wars: China's counter to Musk's Starlink</strong></p>

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<p>Recent reports also suggest that the issuance of the Letter of Intent could materialise as early as Wednesday (Jan 24). But the final timeline will depend on the swift approval process by key decision-makers in India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>If Starlink successfully navigates through the final stages of regulatory approval, it will emerge as the third company to offer space-based broadband services in India.</p>

<p>This will also place&nbsp;Starlink in an exclusive league alongside Mukesh Ambani's Jio Satellite Communications and Eutelast OneWeb, backed by Bharti Global.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the bottom line?</strong></h2>

<p>The potential entry of Starlink into the Indian market not only expands the options for consumers but also underscores the growing role of satellite technology in meeting the surging demand for high-speed internet connectivity in the world's fifth-largest economy.</p>


Elon Musk's Starlink is reportedly on the brink of securing regulatory approval to roll out its space-based broadband services in India. According to initial reports, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has sought clarification from Starlink about its shareholding pattern.

Elon Musk's Starlink is reportedly on the brink of securing regulatory approval to roll out its space-based broadband services in India. According to initial reports, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has sought clarification from Starlink about its shareholding pattern. The response from Starlink has reportedly addressed these queries. Also read | Explained | What is Starlink, the ambitious global internet service of Elon Musk? Sources close to the matter cited by the Economic Times suggest that Starlink's response has set the stage for the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to potentially issue a Letter of Intent (LoI) within the next few days, or at the latest, by the end of the current month. The LoI is seen as a crucial step towards formalising Starlink's entry into the Indian market. What next? As per industry insiders, cited by financial news publications, the Indian Department of Telecommunications is actively engaged in drafting a comprehensive note for the approval process. This note is anticipated to be presented to Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Minister of Communications, and Neeraj Mittal, the secretary of the telecommunications department, for their review and approval. Upon receiving the green light from both Vaishnaw and Mittal, the Satellite Communications Wing (SCW) within the telecommunications department will grant the necessary permissions for SpaceX, the company behind Starlink, to commence operations within India. Also watch | Gravitas | Space wars: China's counter to Musk's Starlink × Recent reports also suggest that the issuance of the Letter of Intent could materialise as early as Wednesday (Jan 24). But the final timeline will depend on the swift approval process by key decision-makers in India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration. What does it mean? If Starlink successfully navigates through the final stages of regulatory approval, it will emerge as the third company to offer space-based broadband services in India. This will also place Starlink in an exclusive league alongside Mukesh Ambani's Jio Satellite Communications and Eutelast OneWeb, backed by Bharti Global. What is the bottom line? The potential entry of Starlink into the Indian market not only expands the options for consumers but also underscores the growing role of satellite technology in meeting the surging demand for high-speed internet connectivity in the world's fifth-largest economy.

Elon Musk's Starlink knocks on India's door, likely to get approval by Jan 24

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">The Israel Ministry is poised to grant approval for Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service this week, with the intention to kickstart limited operations in the country, according to a communication ministry official cited by Bloomberg.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">Initially, sales will be limited to official bodies, and Starlink has committed not to provide access to humanitarian organisations in the Gaza Strip without Israel's defence establishment approval, as stated by Elad Malka, the deputy director of the ministry, in an interview.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">Elon Musk's Starlink, operated by SpaceX, has been in discussions with Israeli authorities regarding its operations, aiming to support wartime communications along Israel's southern and northern borders.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">The caveat, however, is that access will be restricted in the Gaza Strip, with concerns that it could be utilised by Hamas, as explained by Elad Malka.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span>In November, Musk faced criticism for suggesting Starlink's potential service in Gaza but later clarified that activation would only occur with the approval of the US and Israel governments. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">The Israeli government, fast-tracking the Starlink license, sees it as a strategic move amid its ongoing conflict with Hamas.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">Malka disclosed that the Israeli government, amid the prolonged conflict with Hamas, expedited plans for the Starlink license. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">The satellite internet service provider has established an Israeli subsidiary and is set to commence the sale of its terminals in the coming weeks. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">Sales will be limited to approved clients, including communications companies and local councils, as outlined in the license. The move is seen as an effort to enhance wartime communication capabilities while maintaining stringent restrictions to address security concerns.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">In response to the development, SpaceX has not immediately commented on the situation. The approval signifies a significant step for Starlink's expansion into Israel, with the company preparing to sell its terminals in the country. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">The war between Israel and Hamas, now entering its fourth month, has prompted the government to accelerate the licensing process to leverage Starlink's capabilities for enhanced communication infrastructure.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-GB">(With inputs from Bloomberg)<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The Israel Ministry is poised to grant approval for Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service this week, with the intention to kickstart limited operations in the country, according to a communication ministry official cited by Bloomberg.

The Israel Ministry is poised to grant approval for Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service this week, with the intention to kickstart limited operations in the country, according to a communication ministry official cited by Bloomberg. Initially, sales will be limited to official bodies, and Starlink has committed not to provide access to humanitarian organisations in the Gaza Strip without Israel's defence establishment approval, as stated by Elad Malka, the deputy director of the ministry, in an interview. Elon Musk's Starlink, operated by SpaceX, has been in discussions with Israeli authorities regarding its operations, aiming to support wartime communications along Israel's southern and northern borders. The caveat, however, is that access will be restricted in the Gaza Strip, with concerns that it could be utilised by Hamas, as explained by Elad Malka. In November, Musk faced criticism for suggesting Starlink's potential service in Gaza but later clarified that activation would only occur with the approval of the US and Israel governments. The Israeli government, fast-tracking the Starlink license, sees it as a strategic move amid its ongoing conflict with Hamas. Malka disclosed that the Israeli government, amid the prolonged conflict with Hamas, expedited plans for the Starlink license. The satellite internet service provider has established an Israeli subsidiary and is set to commence the sale of its terminals in the coming weeks. Sales will be limited to approved clients, including communications companies and local councils, as outlined in the license. The move is seen as an effort to enhance wartime communication capabilities while maintaining stringent restrictions to address security concerns. In response to the development, SpaceX has not immediately commented on the situation. The approval signifies a significant step for Starlink's expansion into Israel, with the company preparing to sell its terminals in the country. The war between Israel and Hamas, now entering its fourth month, has prompted the government to accelerate the licensing process to leverage Starlink's capabilities for enhanced communication infrastructure. (With inputs from Bloomberg) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel to give Starlink green signal amid war, but with restrictions

Wars are no longer limited to planet Earth. They have reached space. Musk's Starlink satellites made that clear in the Ukraine war. Now they have a competitor. China is set to launch its own satellite network. What are its capabilities?

Gravitas | Space wars: China's counter to Musk's Starlink

China is trying to drill through the Earth's crust and reach the mantle. Beijing has unveiled a ship named Mengxiang that has been tasked with drilling through the Earth's surface. Why does China want to reach the mantle? How risky is this endeavour? Can it endanger your life?

Gravitas: China's plan to dominate the Earth's mantle | Details of the daring mission

SpaceX uphill track to the Stars continues with a minor setback on Saturday after the company's ambitious Starship lost its Co booster functionality minutes into takeoff. This marks the second unsuccessful test flight for the Starship with the previous one earlier in April this year.

SpaceX launches 22 Starlink satellites into orbit, launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base | WION

Billionaire Elon Musk has denied a report that his rocket company SpaceX was discussing an initial public offering for its satellite internet business, Starlink, as soon as 2024. Musk called the Bloomberg report "false". The news report stated that SpaceX had been moving Starlink's assets to a wholly owned unit that would ultimately be spun off.

Elon Musk denies Starlink IPO report | World Business Watch

Elon Musk's SpaceX is on track to book revenues of about 9 billion dollars & register earnings of over 3 billion dollars this year, across its rocket launch and Starlink businesses. Moreover, the company's sales are projected to rise to around 15 billion in 2024.

Report: SpaceX to book revenues of about $9 billion in 2023 | World Business Watch

<p>Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur is in the news again, as he constantly is. This time, he is making news because his 'Starlink' is helping to provide and restore internet access in the Gaza Strip, which is currently being relentlessly bombed by Israel after Palestinian militant group Hamas' October 7 attack that sparked the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Like any other of his ventures, Starlink is an ambitious project that seeks to provide internet access in the remotest parts of the world. But the approach is different. So what exactly is Starlink? Read on.</p>

<p>The traditional approach of providing internet access to an area requires laying fiber-optic wires. This, in turn, involves infrastructure and setting up of a network that requires a physical presence on ground. Plus, all of this needs to be maintained regularly. Needless to say that such an approach becomes problematic because it may not always be possible to lay and maintain wires etc., in parts of the world that are very hard to reach, like mountainous regions, deserts, remote islands and so on. But people live in such places. So how to provide internet access to these populations?</p>

<p>Enter Starlink.</p>

<h2><strong>So what is Starlink exactly?</strong></h2>

<p>Elon Musk's Starlink seeks to provide internet access straight from the sky. A mountainous region may be hard to reach via ground but everyone, everywhere is living under the sky right?&nbsp;</p>

<p>So Starlink, which is operated by Elon Musk's aerospace company SpaceX, provides internet access with the help of satellites.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/spacex-seals-deal-with-esa-for-launch-of-satellites-report-650799">SpaceX seals deal with ESA for launch of satellites: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Now it's old news that satellites can be used to facilitate communication on Earth. But previously such access was extremely expensive and hence ordinary citizens could utilise the access either through governments or big corporations.</p>

<p>Starlink in itself is part of corporate set-up, yes but from what SpaceX and Musk have been saying, it aims to make power of satellites for everyday communication more accessible to users.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Elon Musk offers internet to international aid organisation</strong></p>

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<p>"Starlink is ideally suited for areas where connectivity has been unreliable or completely unavailable," says Starlink on its website&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People across the globe are using Starlink to gain access to education, health services and even communications support during natural disasters."</p>

<h2><strong>So how many satellites are needed for this 'wifi from the sky'?</strong></h2>

<p>Literally thousands! Starlink started launching satellites in 2019. By August this year, they have already sent more than 5000 satellites. The company plans to ultimately send 42000 satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Starlink has already begun providing internet service in many countries but not all. A low Earth orbit puts a satellite about 342 miles (550 kilometres) above the ground.</p>

<p>What's more, the low Earth orbit means that you don't need special equipment to see a Starlink satellite if it is passing through night sky above you. With naked eye, the satellite may appear like a star that is moving.</p>

<p>In case of Starlink satellites, however, due to their sheer numbers, they are often visible in the night sky as a 'train' of stars moving in a line. This is quite a sight for those who haven't seen such a thing before.</p>

<p>There are many apps that tell when exactly Starlink satellites are above you or going to be above you. You can then just look at the sky and see the 'train' of Starlink satellites. Stargazers around the world began reporting such trains within 60 days of launch of first satellites.</p>

<p><strong>Controversies surrounding Starlink and its web of satellites</strong><br />
&nbsp;<br />
Since the outbreak of Russia-Ukraine war, Russian missile attacks have severely damaged infrastructure in Ukraine. This includes traditional internet network that is no longer reliable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian armed forces have hence heavily relied on net connectivity facilitated by Starlink to co-ordination military movements and thwart Russian advance which, at the beginning of the war appeared unstoppable.</p>

<p>However, Musk admitted himself in September this year that he refused request from Ukraine to make Starlink network available in Crimean peninsula so that Ukraine can launch a major drone attack against Russian warships anchored at Sevastopol. He said on X, the social media platform he owns, that agreeing to the request would have amounted to being 'complicit in a major act of war'.</p>

<p>"There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation," he wrote in his post on X last year.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol.<br />
<br />
The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor.<br />
<br />
If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and…</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1699917639043404146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The situation led to debate across the world. Questions like should outcome of a conflict depend on what one private company does. and more were asked.</p>

<p>The other concern has been raised by astronomers. It is feared that thousands of Starlink satellites in the sky would lead to interference in astrophotography and in turn, study of space.</p>

<p>"Satellite constellations can pose a significant or debilitating threat to important existing and future astronomical infrastructures, and we urge their designers and deployers as well as policy-makers to work with the astronomical community in a concerted effort to analyze and understand the impact of satellite constellations," said International Astronomical Union (IAU) in 2019.</p>

<p>The advance of such sky-based internet services appears inevitable as many companies are entering the arena following Starlink's success.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur is in the news again, as he constantly is. This time, he is making news because his 'Starlink' is helping to provide and restore internet access in the Gaza Strip, which is currently being relentlessly bombed by Israel after Palestinian militant group Hamas' October 7 attack that sparked the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur is in the news again, as he constantly is. This time, he is making news because his 'Starlink' is helping to provide and restore internet access in the Gaza Strip, which is currently being relentlessly bombed by Israel after Palestinian militant group Hamas' October 7 attack that sparked the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Like any other of his ventures, Starlink is an ambitious project that seeks to provide internet access in the remotest parts of the world. But the approach is different. So what exactly is Starlink? Read on. The traditional approach of providing internet access to an area requires laying fiber-optic wires. This, in turn, involves infrastructure and setting up of a network that requires a physical presence on ground. Plus, all of this needs to be maintained regularly. Needless to say that such an approach becomes problematic because it may not always be possible to lay and maintain wires etc., in parts of the world that are very hard to reach, like mountainous regions, deserts, remote islands and so on. But people live in such places. So how to provide internet access to these populations? Enter Starlink. So what is Starlink exactly? Elon Musk's Starlink seeks to provide internet access straight from the sky. A mountainous region may be hard to reach via ground but everyone, everywhere is living under the sky right? So Starlink, which is operated by Elon Musk's aerospace company SpaceX, provides internet access with the help of satellites. Also Read | SpaceX seals deal with ESA for launch of satellites: Report Now it's old news that satellites can be used to facilitate communication on Earth. But previously such access was extremely expensive and hence ordinary citizens could utilise the access either through governments or big corporations. Starlink in itself is part of corporate set-up, yes but from what SpaceX and Musk have been saying, it aims to make power of satellites for everyday communication more accessible to users. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Elon Musk offers internet to international aid organisation × "Starlink is ideally suited for areas where connectivity has been unreliable or completely unavailable," says Starlink on its website "People across the globe are using Starlink to gain access to education, health services and even communications support during natural disasters." So how many satellites are needed for this 'wifi from the sky'? Literally thousands! Starlink started launching satellites in 2019. By August this year, they have already sent more than 5000 satellites. The company plans to ultimately send 42000 satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Starlink has already begun providing internet service in many countries but not all. A low Earth orbit puts a satellite about 342 miles (550 kilometres) above the ground. What's more, the low Earth orbit means that you don't need special equipment to see a Starlink satellite if it is passing through night sky above you. With naked eye, the satellite may appear like a star that is moving. In case of Starlink satellites, however, due to their sheer numbers, they are often visible in the night sky as a 'train' of stars moving in a line. This is quite a sight for those who haven't seen such a thing before. There are many apps that tell when exactly Starlink satellites are above you or going to be above you. You can then just look at the sky and see the 'train' of Starlink satellites. Stargazers around the world began reporting such trains within 60 days of launch of first satellites. Controversies surrounding Starlink and its web of satellites Since the outbreak of Russia-Ukraine war, Russian missile attacks have severely damaged infrastructure in Ukraine. This includes traditional internet network that is no longer reliable. Ukrainian armed forces have hence heavily relied on net connectivity facilitated by Starlink to co-ordination military movements and thwart Russian advance which, at the beginning of the war appeared unstoppable. However, Musk admitted himself in September this year that he refused request from Ukraine to make Starlink network available in Crimean peninsula so that Ukraine can launch a major drone attack against Russian warships anchored at Sevastopol. He said on X, the social media platform he owns, that agreeing to the request would have amounted to being 'complicit in a major act of war'. "There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation," he wrote in his post on X last year. There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 7, 2023 × The situation led to debate across the world. Questions like should outcome of a conflict depend on what one private company does. and more were asked. The other concern has been raised by astronomers. It is feared that thousands of Starlink satellites in the sky would lead to interference in astrophotography and in turn, study of space. "Satellite constellations can pose a significant or debilitating threat to important existing and future astronomical infrastructures, and we urge their designers and deployers as well as policy-makers to work with the astronomical community in a concerted effort to analyze and understand the impact of satellite constellations," said International Astronomical Union (IAU) in 2019. The advance of such sky-based internet services appears inevitable as many companies are entering the arena following Starlink's success. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Explained | What is Starlink, the ambitious global internet service of Elon Musk?

<p>Tesla chief and owner of X, Elon Musk on Saturday (Oct 28) said that Starlink will provide connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations&nbsp;in Gaza.&nbsp;Musk said this while responding to US leader Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also called AOC, who asked on X how anyone can defend "such an act" after Israel snapped the internet and communications in the Gaza Strip last night.<br />
<br />
"Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered," said AOC, in a post on X.<br />
<br />
"I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice,” she added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered.<br />
<br />
I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice. <a href="https://t.co/L9iV7TSs2u">https://t.co/L9iV7TSs2u</a></p>
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) <a href="https://twitter.com/AOC/status/1718053947498217715?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Responding to the leader's post on X, Musk said, "Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognized aid organizations in Gaza.<br />
<br />
[ComStar]</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1718224153474388433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reacting to Musk's claims,&nbsp;Israel's communication minister Shlomo Karhi that the country&nbsp;would “use all means at its disposal to fight this”.</p>

<p><br />
"HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters, elderly people. All of them! By then, my office will cut any ties with Starlink,"&nbsp;Karhi said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Israel will use all means at its disposal to fight this.<br />
<br />
HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. There is no doubt about it, we know it, and musk knows it. HAMAS is ISIS.<br />
<br />
Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters,… <a href="https://t.co/pRNOlnINbZ">https://t.co/pRNOlnINbZ</a></p>
— 🇮🇱שלמה קרעי - Shlomo Karhi (@shlomo_karhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/shlomo_karhi/status/1718309963666211328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Starlink aims at providing low-cost internet in remote areas</strong></h2>

<p>Starlink is a satellite network which has been established by the space flight company SpaceX owned by Musk and it provides low-cost internet to people in remote locations.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/musks-social-media-platform-x-to-roll-out-audio-video-calling-in-a-step-towards-everything-app-651325">Musk’s social media platform X to roll out audio, video calling in a step towards ‘everything app’</a></p>

<p>The lifespan of a Starlink satellite is approximately five years and eventually, SpaceX plans to have as many as 42,000 satellites in this so-called megaconstellation.<br />
<br />
The phone network and internet access were completely snapped across Gaza on Friday (Oct 27), as Israel continued to intensely bombard the Palestinian territory. Israel has been accused by Hamas of taking measures "to perpetrate massacres with bloody retaliatory strikes from the air, land and sea."<br />
<br />
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society stated that the "disruption affects the central emergency number 101 and hinders the arrival of ambulance vehicles to the wounded" in the ongoing strikes.<br />
<br />
The organisation added that it was "deeply concerned" about the ability of medics to continue providing care to the injured along with the safety of the staff.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US Judge says Billionaire Elon Musk to face shareholder lawsuit</strong></p>

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<p>"We have completely lost contact with the operations room in the Gaza Strip and all our teams operating there," it stated on X. Palestinian telecoms provider Jawwal had earlier confirmed the communications shutdown.<br />
<br />
"The heavy bombardment in the last hour destroyed all remaining international routes connecting Gaza to the outside world," wrote Jawwal on its Facebook page.<br />
<br />
Global internet monitor NetBlocks had stated "a collapse in connectivity in the Gaza Strip with high impact to Paltel," the owner of Jawwal. "The company is the last remaining major operator to supply service as connectivity declines amid ongoing fighting with Israel," wrote NetBlocks on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Tesla chief and owner of X, Elon Musk on Saturday (Oct 28) said that Starlink will provide connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza. Musk said this while responding to US leader Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also called AOC, who asked on X how anyone can defend "such an act" after Israel snapped the internet and communications in the Gaza Strip last night.

Tesla chief and owner of X, Elon Musk on Saturday (Oct 28) said that Starlink will provide connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza. Musk said this while responding to US leader Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also called AOC, who asked on X how anyone can defend "such an act" after Israel snapped the internet and communications in the Gaza Strip last night. "Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered," said AOC, in a post on X. "I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice,” she added. Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered. I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice. https://t.co/L9iV7TSs2u — Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) October 27, 2023 × Responding to the leader's post on X, Musk said, "Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza." Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognized aid organizations in Gaza. [ComStar] — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 28, 2023 × Reacting to Musk's claims, Israel's communication minister Shlomo Karhi that the country would “use all means at its disposal to fight this”. "HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters, elderly people. All of them! By then, my office will cut any ties with Starlink," Karhi said. Israel will use all means at its disposal to fight this. HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. There is no doubt about it, we know it, and musk knows it. HAMAS is ISIS. Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters,… https://t.co/pRNOlnINbZ — 🇮🇱שלמה קרעי - Shlomo Karhi (@shlomo_karhi) October 28, 2023 × Starlink aims at providing low-cost internet in remote areas Starlink is a satellite network which has been established by the space flight company SpaceX owned by Musk and it provides low-cost internet to people in remote locations. ALSO READ | Musk’s social media platform X to roll out audio, video calling in a step towards ‘everything app’ The lifespan of a Starlink satellite is approximately five years and eventually, SpaceX plans to have as many as 42,000 satellites in this so-called megaconstellation. The phone network and internet access were completely snapped across Gaza on Friday (Oct 27), as Israel continued to intensely bombard the Palestinian territory. Israel has been accused by Hamas of taking measures "to perpetrate massacres with bloody retaliatory strikes from the air, land and sea." The Palestinian Red Crescent Society stated that the "disruption affects the central emergency number 101 and hinders the arrival of ambulance vehicles to the wounded" in the ongoing strikes. The organisation added that it was "deeply concerned" about the ability of medics to continue providing care to the injured along with the safety of the staff. WATCH | US Judge says Billionaire Elon Musk to face shareholder lawsuit "We have completely lost contact with the operations room in the Gaza Strip and all our teams operating there," it stated on X. Palestinian telecoms provider Jawwal had earlier confirmed the communications shutdown. "The heavy bombardment in the last hour destroyed all remaining international routes connecting Gaza to the outside world," wrote Jawwal on its Facebook page. Global internet monitor NetBlocks had stated "a collapse in connectivity in the Gaza Strip with high impact to Paltel," the owner of Jawwal. "The company is the last remaining major operator to supply service as connectivity declines amid ongoing fighting with Israel," wrote NetBlocks on X. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Starlink to provide internet to aid groups in Gaza, says Musk in response to US leader

Israel says it is in talks with Elon Musk's SpaceX for setting up Starlink internet services as the war rages on. Musk's Starlink satellites have been aiding Ukraine for a year now. The billionaire's biography has revealed that he halted the service before a Ukrainian attack. Should business mogul get to take national-security level decisions?

Israel-Palestine war: Israel seeks to deploy Elon Musk's Starlink wartime backup | Gravitas

Ahead of its anticipated ground invasion in the Gaza Strip, Israel claims to be in discussions with SpaceX about establishing Starlink internet services to support its communications during combat.

Starlink in the warzone, this time in Israel

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<p>Amazon on Friday (Oct 6) launched its first pair of prototype satellites for its planned Kuiper internet network. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, a United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket emblazoned with the Amazon logo lifted off from Cape Canaveral shortly after 18.00 GMT, carrying the two Kuiper test satellites. This launch is Amazon's first step before it deploys thousands more (satellites) into orbit to beam internet service globally and compete with SpaceX's Starlink.</p>

<p>In the next few years, the e-commerce giant looks to deploy 3,236 more satellites and offer broadband internet globally. Reuters reported in the days leading up to the launch, Amazon divulged few specifics about the two satellites.</p>

<h2><strong>Amazon vows to invest $10 billion in Kuiper project</strong></h2>

<p>Amazon has vowed to invest $10 billion into its Kuiper project. American regulators require the company to deploy half its planned satellite constellation by 2026. Similar to SpaceX, Amazon aims to target individual consumers and enterprise customers with Kuiper, pulling from its devices playbook to build consumer terminals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The low-earth satellites will travel at an altitude of 590 and 630 kilometers (about 367 and 392 miles) which will provide internet to areas that cable and fiber can’t reach.</p>

<h2><strong>'Kuiper 4-5 years behind Starlink'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to Reuters, TMF (Telecom, Media and Finance) Associates President Tim Farrar said, "Starlink has already announced it has about 2 million customers and it's been growing very fast. It's been adding roughly 100,000 customers a month. And last year they had revenues of something like $1.4 billion. So by the time Amazon gets their constellation to service, it's very most likely that StarLink will have five plus million subscribers and perhaps $5 to $8 billion of revenue."</p>

<p>"And that's going to be a long road for Amazon to get anywhere close to that. So they are four or five years behind at least," Farrar added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Amazon on Friday (Oct 6) launched its first pair of prototype satellites for its planned Kuiper internet network. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, a United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket emblazoned with the Amazon logo lifted off from Cape Canaveral shortly after 18.

Amazon on Friday (Oct 6) launched its first pair of prototype satellites for its planned Kuiper internet network. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, a United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket emblazoned with the Amazon logo lifted off from Cape Canaveral shortly after 18.00 GMT, carrying the two Kuiper test satellites. This launch is Amazon's first step before it deploys thousands more (satellites) into orbit to beam internet service globally and compete with SpaceX's Starlink. In the next few years, the e-commerce giant looks to deploy 3,236 more satellites and offer broadband internet globally. Reuters reported in the days leading up to the launch, Amazon divulged few specifics about the two satellites. Amazon vows to invest $10 billion in Kuiper project Amazon has vowed to invest $10 billion into its Kuiper project. American regulators require the company to deploy half its planned satellite constellation by 2026. Similar to SpaceX, Amazon aims to target individual consumers and enterprise customers with Kuiper, pulling from its devices playbook to build consumer terminals. The low-earth satellites will travel at an altitude of 590 and 630 kilometers (about 367 and 392 miles) which will provide internet to areas that cable and fiber can’t reach. 'Kuiper 4-5 years behind Starlink' Speaking to Reuters, TMF (Telecom, Media and Finance) Associates President Tim Farrar said, "Starlink has already announced it has about 2 million customers and it's been growing very fast. It's been adding roughly 100,000 customers a month. And last year they had revenues of something like $1.4 billion. So by the time Amazon gets their constellation to service, it's very most likely that StarLink will have five plus million subscribers and perhaps $5 to $8 billion of revenue." "And that's going to be a long road for Amazon to get anywhere close to that. So they are four or five years behind at least," Farrar added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Amazon launches first pair of prototype satellites for Kuiper internet network

Putin hailed Elon Musk. Musk was called an 'Outstanding' person. The praise by the Russian President comes days after Elon Musk refused a Ukrainian request.

Why did Putin praise Elon Musk while Ukrainian troops continue to use Starlink on 'all front lines'?

<p>Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled <em>Elon Musk</em>.</p>

<p>Musk told the biographer that he was worried about being dragged into the war and ordered engineers to turn off the satellites as he feared that the attack would amount to “mini Pearl Harbor” and lead to a Russian nuclear retaliation.</p>

<p>According to the book, which is set to be released next week, after Musk disconnected the satellites, Ukrainian drones “lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly”, reported CNN.</p>

<p>“How am I in this war?” Musk told the writer, who has previously published biographies of Steve Jobs and Henry Kissinger.</p>

<p>“Starlink was not meant to be involved in wars. It was so people can watch Netflix and chill and get online for school and do good peaceful things, not drone strikes.”</p>

<h2><strong>Starlink may soon offer internet services in India</strong></h2>

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<h2><strong>Despite Ukraine's request, Musk remained adamant&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The author further claimed in his book that Ukraine’s former deputy prime minister Mykhailo Fedorov “begged” Musk to restore access to the satellites. But the billionaire denied the request, saying that the drone attack was “going too far and inviting strategic defeat.”</p>

<p>More than 20,000 Starlink terminals were donated by Musk to Ukraine after Russia destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure at the beginning of the war in February 2022.</p>

<p>Last October, Musk wrote to the Pentagon to say that it could no longer afford to continue funding the service and asked the Biden administration to cover the cost, which he estimated to be in hundreds of millions of dollars, CNN revealed at the time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/record-breaking-rain-batters-hong-kong-and-chinese-city-shenzhen-633526">Record-breaking rain batters Hong Kong and Chinese city Shenzhen</a></p>

<p>Earlier this year, the US and European governments negotiated a deal with Musk, paying for another 100,000 Starlink satellite dishes to be sent to Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-moves-out-troops-conducts-precautionary-repositioning-of-forces-in-niger-633488">US moves out troops, conducts 'precautionary' repositioning of forces in Niger</a></p>

<p>It’s unknown whether the Tesla CEO has reconsidered his fears over nuclear war after receiving&nbsp;such a large bulk order.</p>

<h2><strong>Musk responds</strong></h2>

<p>After a user, Mario Nawfal — a self-described combination of entrepreneur, business influencer and “citizen journalist” — shared the excerpts from the book on social media platform X, Musk said that had he acceded&nbsp;to the Ukrainian government’s request, SpaceX would have faced retaliation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol.<br />
<br />
The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor.<br />
<br />
If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and…</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1699917639043404146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation,” he said in response to the post on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled Elon Musk.

Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled Elon Musk. Musk told the biographer that he was worried about being dragged into the war and ordered engineers to turn off the satellites as he feared that the attack would amount to “mini Pearl Harbor” and lead to a Russian nuclear retaliation. According to the book, which is set to be released next week, after Musk disconnected the satellites, Ukrainian drones “lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly”, reported CNN. “How am I in this war?” Musk told the writer, who has previously published biographies of Steve Jobs and Henry Kissinger. “Starlink was not meant to be involved in wars. It was so people can watch Netflix and chill and get online for school and do good peaceful things, not drone strikes.” Starlink may soon offer internet services in India Despite Ukraine's request, Musk remained adamant The author further claimed in his book that Ukraine’s former deputy prime minister Mykhailo Fedorov “begged” Musk to restore access to the satellites. But the billionaire denied the request, saying that the drone attack was “going too far and inviting strategic defeat.” More than 20,000 Starlink terminals were donated by Musk to Ukraine after Russia destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure at the beginning of the war in February 2022. Last October, Musk wrote to the Pentagon to say that it could no longer afford to continue funding the service and asked the Biden administration to cover the cost, which he estimated to be in hundreds of millions of dollars, CNN revealed at the time. Also read | Record-breaking rain batters Hong Kong and Chinese city Shenzhen Earlier this year, the US and European governments negotiated a deal with Musk, paying for another 100,000 Starlink satellite dishes to be sent to Ukraine. Also read | US moves out troops, conducts 'precautionary' repositioning of forces in Niger It’s unknown whether the Tesla CEO has reconsidered his fears over nuclear war after receiving such a large bulk order. Musk responds After a user, Mario Nawfal — a self-described combination of entrepreneur, business influencer and “citizen journalist” — shared the excerpts from the book on social media platform X, Musk said that had he acceded to the Ukrainian government’s request, SpaceX would have faced retaliation. There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 7, 2023 × “There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation,” he said in response to the post on X. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Fearing a nuclear war, Elon Musk snipped Starlink services to thwart Ukrainian drone offensive on Russia

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