The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted authorization to Elon Musk’s SpaceX to use its Starlink satellite internet system on vehicles in motion such as cars, trucks, boats and planes.
The FCC along with SpaceX has also approved Kepler Communications, paving the way for a new class of user terminals that can connect to broadband-beaming satellites while on the go, The Verge reported.
“Authorizing a new class of terminals for SpaceX’s satellite system will expand the range of broadband capabilities to meet growing user demands, which now require connectivity on the move, whether in RVs (recreational vehicles) across the country.” ), carrying a cargo from Europe to a US port, or during a domestic or international flight,” FCC international bureau chief Tom Sullivan said in a statement Thursday.
Also read: DRDO tests India-made autonomous aircraft to add more fire power
SpaceX and a group of other companies last year requested regulatory approval from the FCC to allow Earth Stations in Motion (ESIM) Starlink terminals to be used in moving vehicles.
While the FCC approved SpaceX and Kepler, it rejected a petition from Dish Network that sought to bar the companies from using frequencies in the 12GHz band.
However, the FCC will continue to analyze as it moves forward with making rules on the presence of eSIM devices in the 12GHz band and said Kepler and SpaceX will be subject to any future regulations, the report said.
The FCC argues that it is in the public interest to approve the new capacity.
“We agree with SpaceX and Kepler that the public interest will benefit from awarding their applications with conditions,” the FCC wrote in its authorization.
Also read: Google is paying app developers $90 million to settle legal battle
Starlink is SpaceX’s ambitious initiative to launch a group of thousands of satellites into low-to-medium-Earth orbit, in order to provide low-latency broadband coverage to below-Earth.
The company has more than 2,400 satellites in orbit so far, and after coming out of beta testing late last year, the company recently claimed it had 400,000 users.
Customers who want to order Starlink will have to purchase the kit — which comes with a user terminal — for $599 and then pay a monthly fee of $110.
read all breaking news, today’s fresh newswatch top videos And live TV Here.