Elon Musk-Led Starlink Aims to Launch Satellite Broadband Services in India
Starlink, the brainchild of entrepreneur Elon Musk, is on the cusp of introducing its revolutionary satellite-based broadband services in India. The company is currently in pursuit of acquiring the necessary license to commence operations within the country.
Understanding Satellite Internet
Unlike traditional internet systems reliant on cables or copper wires, satellite internet utilizes signals transmitted from satellites orbiting Earth. This technology proves invaluable in extending internet access to remote regions that lack traditional connectivity options such as fiber cables.
Unlocking the Mechanism
Satellite internet services are facilitated through dedicated channels installed either at homes or remote stations. In the case of Starlink, its services hinge on a constellation of Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, all managed by SpaceX. Having already deployed over 4,000 satellites and with more launches planned, Starlink’s global coverage is steadily expanding.
A Decisive Junction Approaches
SpaceX, the parent company of Starlink, applied for the Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) license from the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) last year. Officials from the DoT are slated to convene on September 20 to deliberate on the granting of this crucial license, a decision that could shape the future of satellite broadband in India.
Prior Endeavors and Precautions
Starlink’s journey in India hasn’t been without challenges. The company previously initiated pre-orders without securing a license, prompting the DoT to intervene and issue a warning. Following this incident, Starlink had to refund money to those who had made pre-orders. The official Starlink website currently maintains that it is awaiting “regulatory approval.”
Government’s Perspective
A source familiar with the developments stated, “We wanted to ensure that companies do not provide services without proper licenses. We encountered a similar situation with Skype, where bringing the company under a licensing regime proved challenging. Now, we have clear regulations in place.”
Company Licensing Landscape
Starlink is the third entity to apply for the GMPCS license. As of now, the license has only been granted to OneWeb, backed by Airtel, and Jio Space Technology, the satellite arm of Jio.
The Road Ahead
Upon securing the license, Starlink will need to acquire satellite spectrum from the DoT’s wireless planning and coordination. The DoT will likely adopt an auction-based approach to allocate the satcom spectrum. This approach has garnered support from telecom companies while satellite companies hold opposing viewpoints.
In Conclusion
The imminent entry of Starlink’s satellite broadband services in India heralds a new era of connectivity. As the regulatory processes unfold, the potential benefits of satellite-based internet accessibility could soon become a reality for the Indian populace.
