SpaceX Expands Starlink Satellite Network
SpaceX has launched more than 10,000 Starlink satellites into orbit, transforming how people access the internet across the globe. The company, led by Elon Musk, is only a third of the way through its ambitious plan. Currently, about 8,600 of these satellites remain active, providing high-speed internet to even the most remote locations. The rest have already burned up as they reentered Earth’s atmosphere. This massive network is a game-changer for rural and underserved communities who previously struggled with slow or no internet service.
A Crowded Sky: Boon or Bane?
While this rapid expansion brings affordable, fast internet to the ‘sticks’, it also raises concerns. Astronomers have voiced worries about the increasing number of satellites cluttering the night sky. The bright trails from Starlink satellites can hinder astronomical observations, making it difficult for scientists to study stars and planets. As SpaceX continues its mission, the sky is only set to get more crowded, highlighting the need for balance between technological progress and the preservation of our view of the cosmos.
