(SpaceX)
UPDATE: SpaceX has delayed this launch until Dec. 28, with a liftoff target of 9:09 p.m. PT. Backup opportunities are available until 12:32 a.m. PT on Friday, Dec. 29, and another window will open on Dec. 29 starting at 8:48 p.m. PT, if needed.
Original Story:SpaceX is aiming to launch the first cellular Starlink satellites later tonight, if weather permits.
During the launch, the company plans on sending 21 Starlink satellites into orbit. Six of those satellites will be equipped to beam data to unmodified smartphones on the ground, according to Spaceflight Now.
“This launch will include the first six Starlink satellites with Direct to Cell capabilities that will enable mobile network operators around the world to provide seamless global access to texting, calling, and browsing wherever you may be on land, lakes, or coastal water,” SpaceX says.
SpaceX is conducting the launch more than a week after the company received FCC clearance to begin deploying the Direct to Cell Starlink satellites into Earth’s orbit. On Thursday, the FCC also issued temporary authorization for SpaceX to begin testing the cellular Starlink system in 25 locations across the US.
(Credit: Starlink)During the 180-day testing period, the company will transmit data from the cellular Starlink satellites to 2,000 test devices on the ground using T-Mobile’s licensed spectrum. The goal is to eventually launch the cellular Starlink system sometime next year, first by delivering text messages for carriers, including T-Mobile. In 2025, SpaceX then plans on using the technology to power voice and data.
To enable the connectivity, SpaceX has been designing its next-generation Starlink satellites to essentially act as orbiting cell towers. The company also told the FCC last month: “We expect to launch and operate approximately 840 direct-to-cell capable satellites over the next 6 months, with additional launches continuing after that period to ensure that we can launch a critical mass of satellites in time to deliver commercial service later in 2024.”
Still, SpaceX has only received US regulatory clearance to test the cellular Starlink system, not to supply commercial service. The company still needs to win full approval from the FCC amid concerns from rival companies that the cellular Starlink could cause radio interference.
In the meantime, SpaceX plans on launching the 21 Starlink satellites from California at 9:19 p.m. PT. If necessary, the company could delay the launch to a backup window tomorrow, 12:37 a.m. PT.