Nov 15, 2018 - Science

SpaceX gets federal approval to launch 7,000 satellites into orbit

Michael Sykes

Space X launch — A SpaceX launch. Photo: Bill Ingalis/Nasa via Getty Images

Elon Musk's SpaceX won permission from the Federal Communications Commission to launch 7,000 Starlink internet satellites into space, creating a path for the company to build a network of nearly 12,000 satellites surrounding the Earth and providing internet access, the Washington Post reports.

Why it matters: The satellites could provide next-generation internet access to developing countries and rural areas that have struggled with connectivity over the years.

Details: The company has an initial goal of launching 1,600 satellites in the next few years, but said it could take more than six years to complete the full network.

SpaceX isn't the only company the FCC approved launches for: Kepler, Telesat and Leosat also received approvals to launch satellites, triggering a race to build the strongest network.

Yes, but: Despite the benefits, some regulators have concerns about the accumulation of junk in space. There are nearly 13,000 objects currently classified as space debris. The FCC launched a review of orbital debris mitigation rules in an effort to "help to preserve the space environment."

What they're saying: FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said the launches serve the public interest "across many areas of our economy, including the automotive, aviation, rail, maritime and agriculture industries."

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SpaceX gets federal approval to launch 7,000 satellites into orbit

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