Billionaire Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet network has reached 4 million users globally.

In a notable development, SpaceX – the company that provides Starlink satellite internet service owned by billionaire Elon Musk – has officially confirmed that its Starlink satellite internet network has surpassed 4 million customers. This information was previously shared by Gwynne Shotwell, President of SpaceX, during her testimony before the House Financial Committee of Texas (USA).

This milestone not only marks the success of the Starlink satellite internet service but also demonstrates the remarkable growth of the global satellite internet market. With its far-reaching vision, SpaceX is increasingly asserting its pioneering position in bringing internet connectivity to every corner of the world.

The growth of Starlink satellite internet service has been rapid recently. In less than six months, since reaching 3 million customers last May, SpaceX's satellite internet network has attracted an additional 1 million new users.

Starlink satellite internet service began its trial run in October 2020, reaching 1 million users in December 2022, 2 million users in September 2023, and 3 million this past May. This demonstrates the continued appeal of the Starlink satellite internet network.

Currently, with nearly 6,000 operational satellites and service coverage in almost 100 countries, Starlink has become one of the world's largest and most comprehensive satellite internet networks, serving both individual customers and large businesses such as major airlines and cruise lines.

According to the latest report from space research and consulting firm Quilty Space, Starlink's satellite internet service revenue is expected to reach an impressive $6.6 billion this year. This represents a significant increase from the $1.4 billion recorded just two years prior. This rapid growth demonstrates the unlimited potential of the satellite internet market and solidifies Starlink's leading position.

The Starlink satellite internet network is central to SpaceX's overall plan to commercialize and ultimately explore space. In addition to continuing to raise funds from investors, CEO Elon Musk stated that revenue from the satellite internet service will be reinvested in the development of the Starship rocket. Starship, with its reusable capabilities and large payload capacity, will be the primary tool for launching a multitude of Starlink satellites into orbit, thereby expanding coverage and enhancing the ability to provide global internet services.

Starlink satellite internet has quickly become a formidable force in the satellite internet market, challenging the long-standing dominance of traditional companies like Viasat and SES, which operate large satellites in higher geostationary orbits. With its extensive satellite network and advanced technology, Starlink has captured a significant market share, attracting a large number of new customers, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.

Starlink's rapid growth has put its competitors on alert and accelerated the race to develop satellite technology. Several other players are also looking to enter this market but have yet to commercialize it, such as Amazon's Project Kuiper.