SpaceX
SpaceX Starlink launched roaming services for global customers
Today, SpaceX launched global roaming services for global Starlink customers. This is an amazing move played by the satellite internet provider and a positive step to extend the user base.
According to the information, SpaceX Starlink Global Roaming launched at a one-time cost of $599 for portable hardware or $2500 for in-motion hardware. You can also choose regional for $150 per month, or global for $200 per month.
Users who want to tag along with the global Starlink plan can hop on the map to get more information about the availability (Here).
Starlink now offers a global roaming option for customers traveling to locations where connectivity has been unreliable or completely unavailable → https://t.co/zQFh5qscts pic.twitter.com/CKpsWVeDx4
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) March 15, 2023
Roaming:
Past exposure to this tech reveals that Starlink Global Roaming makes use of Starlink’s inter-satellite links (aka space lasers) to provide connectivity around the globe even if you are moving.
This is a new technology, you can expect Starlink’s typical high-speed, low-latency service intermixed with brief periods of poor connectivity, or none at all. However, SpaceX promised to improve coverage broader in the near future.
SpaceX says that the new Starlink Roam will provide a powerful backup for people even in places where the mobile network becomes unreachable.
Interestingly, the Starlink Roam enables you to pause and un-pause service at any time. This will give you the power to customize services according to your preference and requirements.
Initially, SpaceX will ship Standard Starlink, however, a new Flat high-performance version for in-motion use is currently only available for selected markets.
User:
There is some user complaint that just appeared on U.S. carriers and it’s rampage out there, let’s check some.
A Twitter user wrote “And I have problems making @Verizon calls in Whittier!”
We always want you to have the ability to use your services! I'm sorry to learn about any issues with calls, and I'm here to help you. When did this begin and what zip code are you in? Please reply via DM, and we can go from there. Thank you! -Jordan
— Verizon Support (@VerizonSupport) March 15, 2023
Another comes up with “Wow, and with @TMobile I can’t get 5G coverage at my home with a tower less then 5 miles away here in Tallahassee, FL. They say, “they are working it, since they purchased Sprint”
Hi Mark, I can get an update for you and look into the tower that you have mentioned. Send me a DM so we can get to work right away. ^JasonYoung https://t.co/8DIvLVByJj
— T-Mobile Help (@TMobileHelp) March 15, 2023
On March 17, 2023, SpaceX launched 52 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit using the Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
The first stage booster for this mission is fully reusable and SpaceX used that previously in NROL-87, NROL-85, SARah-1, SWOT, and three Starlink missions.
Before launch, SpaceX via Twitter confirmed that all systems and weather are looking good for Falcon 9’s Starlink launch on March 17 at 12:26 p.m. PT.
For this mission, the activity and loading began 38 minutes prior to the liftoff. It ranges from launch director verification to giving a go for the propellant load.
The latter process is RP-1 loading, 1st stage LOX (liquid oxygen), 2nd stage LOX loading, and engine chill prior to launch. This is followed by a command flight computer to begin prelaunch checks.
Within one minute, SpaceX began propellant tank pressurization to flight pressure. At T-45, the SpaceX launch director verified the final go for launch. At T-3, Falcon 9 began the ignition sequence.
Liftoff:
The liftoff was powerful as we can expect from the Falcon 9 because it never disappoints us to showcase that thrust.
Liftoff! pic.twitter.com/scElnpo3uy
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) March 17, 2023
1st stage Separation:
Following the launch, 1st stag MECO event was triggered at 2:27 minutes of the launch.
1st stage landing:
Following an entry burn, SpaceX landed on a drone ship in the ocean at 8:47 minutes after liftoff.
Falcon 9’s first stage has landed on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship pic.twitter.com/8k4vdF5e1u
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) March 17, 2023
Deployment:
SpaceX confirmed the deployment of 52 Starlink satellites around 15 minutes of liftoff.
Congratulations to SpaceX team for this 52 Starlink deployment
It was a fast delivery and Starlink connectivity will get increased enjoyment.— EONMSK (@eonmsk) March 17, 2023
Another news drop for the Starship launch coming from Elon Musk, as the space rocket maker company, SpaceX is now waiting for an FAA license for the launch attempt.
Today, Elon Musk said that SpaceX is waiting for FAA license approval to process the upcoming Starship launch attempt. He revealed that the company will be ready to fire this giant rocket into orbit very soon.
The SpaceX chief also shared that it may take a few weeks to clear FAA and the first launch attempt would be around the third week of April.
FAA license?
A standard airworthiness certificate is the FAA’s official authorization allowing for the operation of a type of certificated aircraft. A standard airworthiness certificate allows the aircraft to be operated and used with the most minimal restrictions and for compensation and hire.
The FAA also issues commercial space licenses, verifies launch or reentry vehicles meant to carry humans operate as intended, and provides regulation of flight crew qualifications and training. The FAA also performs safety inspections and safely integrates commercial space operations into the National Airspace System.
Anticipating:
In a recent interview at Morgan Stanley Conference, Elon anticipates the upcoming launch attempt. He said, “I’m not saying it will get to orbit, but I am guaranteeing excitement, So, won’t be boring!”
He expects that there is a high chance for SpaceX to send Starship into orbit this year. However, he still thinks there is a couple of years required to build reusable.
Progress:
On January 23, SpaceX stacked Starship on top of the super heavy Booster 7 rocket at Starbase in Texas. The stacking leads us to a full flight-like wet dress rehearsal.
This was the first time an integrated ship and booster were fully loaded with over 10 million pounds of propellant.
Within the same month, SpaceX detached the Starship from booster 7 and achieved a successful Booster 7 static fire. However, we now have to wait until SpaceX comes up with a piece of good news.