On January 2, SpaceX launched a set of Starlink satellites, marking a major step towards providing more widespread mobile phone service, including areas that previously had no reception.
The launch took place at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, where SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket deployed 21 satellites. Among the satellites was the first batch of Starlink satellites equipped with Direct to Cell capabilities, designed to allow mobile network providers such as T-Mobile to offer seamless coverage in remote areas.
This initiative is part of a partnership between SpaceX and T-Mobile, known as the “Coverage Above and Beyond” program, which aims to expand network access across the United States. The next generation of Starlink satellites, fitted with an advanced modem, will act as a space-based cellphone tower connecting directly to T-Mobile’s network.
The joint effort between SpaceX and T-Mobile is considered a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity across the country. It will benefit over half a million square miles and vast marine areas that were previously unreachable using traditional network coverage. Partnerships with various carriers globally, such as Rogers, KDDI, Optus, and Entel, are also underway to utilize these direct to cell satellites.
SpaceX also received approval from the Federal Communications Commission to run tests of its direct to cell service, and T-Mobile confirmed that field testing of Starlink satellites’ connectivity to its network will soon commence. According to Elon Musk, the satellites will allow for mobile phone connectivity anywhere on Earth, although he noted that they are not directly competitive with existing terrestrial cellular networks.
Starlink’s direct to cell website details plans to introduce text messaging in 2024, with voice and data services to follow in 2025. Additionally, the company aims to connect the satellites with the internet of things devices in 2025. Bloomberg reported a $10 billion sales prediction for Starlink this year.