STARLINK DEVICES

Starlink, developed by SpaceX, is a satellite internet service providing broadband via low Earth orbit satellites. It offers high-speed, low-latency connections and plans to launch 42,000 satellites globally. Although operational in over 60 countries, it lacks regulatory approval in India, where foreign satellite services face restrictions.

Last Updated on 25th December, 2024
3 minutes, 7 seconds

Description

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context:  

SpaceX founder Elon Musk said Starlink satellite beams were turned off over India, reacting to claims that its device was being used in restive Manipur.

What is Starlink and how does it work?

Starlink is a satellite internet service developed by SpaceX, designed to provide broadband internet via a network of satellites in low earth orbit. Satellites are launched and provide low latency and high speed connections compared to traditional satellite internet. They uses a large constellation of satellites, each equipped with phased-array and parabolic antennas to increase capacity.

SpaceX plans to launch 42,000 satellites to form a mega-constellation providing global coverage.

Starlink involvement in terrorism:

The Indian Army shared photos showing weapons and what appeared to be Starlink devices seized in Manipur. The device was labeled "RPF/PLA", referring to the militant group.

The discovery raised concerns about the possible circumvention of geographic restrictions by non-state actors.

Musk denied the allegations and explained that Starlink services do not work in India, despite the devices being found in the region.

Does Starlink have regulatory approval in India?

Starlink does not yet have regulatory approval in India. India's regulatory framework restricts the use of foreign satellite communications services, particularly for non-commercial purposes.

However, Starlink is operational in more than 60 countries, including neighboring countries such as Bangladesh and Bhutan (where it plans to start operations in 2025).

Source:

THE HINDU 

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Consider the following statements regarding Starlink satellite internet service:

  1. Starlink, developed by SpaceX, operates through a constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit, providing broadband internet with low latency and high-speed connections.
  2. Starlink has received regulatory approval for commercial operations in India and is operational within the country.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: a

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Starlink, developed by SpaceX, provides broadband internet via a network of satellites in low Earth orbit, offering low latency and high-speed connections compared to traditional satellite internet.

Statement 2 is incorrect: Starlink does not yet have regulatory approval in India. The Indian regulatory framework restricts the use of foreign satellite communications services, especially for non-commercial purposes, and Starlink is not operational in India at present.

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