SpaceX Launches 20 New Starlink Satellites, Including Direct to Cell, to Expand Global Internet Coverage

Oct 30, 2024, 12:45 PM

SpaceX has launched 20 new Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, aiming to expand its global internet coverage. Among these, 13 satellites are equipped with direct-to-cell (DTC) capabilities. Currently, there are about 6,370 active Starlink satellites, and SpaceX hopes to eventually have as many as 42,000 satellites in its megaconstellation. The company is approximately 15% of the way to reaching this goal. Additionally, Starlink is edging closer to launching in India, with faster and more affordable internet services amid final security clearance. Only 5 more launches are needed to complete the first commercial constellation for Direct to Cell.