First set of satellites with direct to-cell capabilities launched by SpaceX

Source: This post is based on the article “SpaceX launches first set of satellites with direct-to-cell capabilities” published in “The Economic Times” on 4^th January 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, SpaceX successfully launched the first set of Starlink satellites equipped with direct-to-cell capabilities.

These Starlink satellites can beam phone signals from space directly to smartphones.

What is direct-to-cell satellite technology?

1) Direct-to-cell technology allows for the direct transmission of communication signals, including text messages, voice, and data, from space-based satellites to mobile devices (cell phones), without conventional ground-based infrastructure.

2) The technology will also connect Internet of Things (IoT) devices with common LTE mobile standards.

3) This is beneficial in remote or underserved areas, where setting up conventional terrestrial networks can be difficult or economically impractical.

4) Japan’s KDDI, Australia’s Optus, New Zealand’s One NZ, Canada’s Rogers will collaborate with SpaceX to launch direct-to-cell technology.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology