Billionaire Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet network reaches 4 million users worldwide
Internet connectivity has become a necessity in modern life. And now, with 4 million users in nearly 100 countries, Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet network is changing the face of the global telecommunications industry.
In a notable development, SpaceX – the company providing Starlink satellite internet service of billionaire Elon Musk has officially confirmed that the Starlink satellite internet network has surpassed the 4 million customer milestone. This information was shared by Ms. Gwynne Shotwell, President of SpaceX, during her testimony before the Texas State House Finance Committee (USA).
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This milestone not only marks the success of the Starlink satellite internet service but also shows the remarkable growth of the global satellite internet market. With a far-reaching vision, SpaceX is increasingly asserting its pioneering position in bringing internet connection to every corner of the world.
The growth of the Starlink satellite internet service has been rapid in recent times. In just less than 6 months, since the 3 million customer milestone in May, SpaceX's satellite internet network has attracted 1 million new users.
The Starlink satellite internet service began its trial service in October 2020, reaching 1 million users in December 2022, 2 million users in September 2023 and 3 million in May. This shows the continued appeal of the Starlink satellite internet network.
Currently, with nearly 6,000 satellites in operation and service coverage in nearly 100 countries, Starlink has become one of the largest and most comprehensive satellite Internet networks in the world, serving both individual customers and large businesses such as major airlines and cruise lines.
According to the latest report from the aerospace research and consulting firm Quilty Space, the revenue of Starlink satellite internet service is expected to reach an impressive figure of 6.6 billion USD this year. This shows a huge growth compared to 1.4 billion USD just two years ago. This breakneck growth rate shows the limitless potential of the satellite internet market and affirms Starlink's leading position.
The Starlink satellite internet network is at the heart of SpaceX’s master plan for commercialization and eventual space exploration. In addition to continuing to raise money from investors, CEO Elon Musk said that revenue from satellite internet services will be reinvested in the development of the Starship rocket. Starship, with its reusable and high-payload capabilities, will be the key tool for launching a series of Starlink satellites into orbit, thereby expanding coverage and enhancing the ability to provide global internet services.
The Starlink satellite internet network has quickly become a formidable force in the satellite internet market, challenging the long-standing dominance of traditional companies such as Viasat and SES, which operate large satellites operating in higher geostationary orbits. With its large satellite network and advanced technology, Starlink has captured a significant market share, attracting a large number of new customers, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Starlink’s rapid growth has put competitors on edge and accelerated the race to develop satellite technology. Several other players are also looking to enter the market but have yet to commercialize it, such as tech giant Amazon’s Project Kuiper.