SpaceX has launched a rocket carrying the first batch of Starlink satellites, which are capable of sending signals directly to smartphones from space. On Tuesday, SpaceX launched the Falcon 9 rocket into space from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The company confirmed that the rocket carries 21 satellites aimed at supporting the Starlink satellite internet system.
In a statement, SpaceX mentioned, "The addition of these satellites will enable mobile network operators around the world to provide seamless global access to texting, calls, and navigation everywhere on Earth." The company, owned by billionaire Elon Musk, struck a deal in August 2022 with wireless communication companies to enable users in "dead zones" to access the network via Starlink satellites.
One of the carriers, T-Mobile US, confirmed that the satellites were in low Earth orbit that morning. The T-Mobile statement indicated that direct service would begin with text messaging, followed by voice and data capabilities in the coming years. The satellite service will not be immediately available to T-Mobile customers, but field tests will start "soon."
