History of Starlink in Timeline
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by Starlink Services, LLC, a subsidiary of SpaceX. It provides internet coverage to over 100 countries and territories and aims to provide global mobile broadband. Starlink is significant to SpaceX's overall business strategy and growth.
2008: SpaceX sells stake in SSTL
In 2008, SpaceX sold its stake back to EADS Astrium, shifting focus from navigation and Earth observation.
2012: Inspiration for Starlink Trademark
In 2012, the novel "The Fault in Our Stars" was published, inspiring the name for SpaceX's Starlink trademark.
June 2014: SpaceX files ITU application under the name STEAM
In June 2014, after discussions broke down, SpaceX filed an International Telecommunications Union (ITU) application via the Norwegian Communications Authority under the name STEAM.
January 2015: Initial Starlink Constellation Plans
In January 2015, initial plans forecasted the Starlink constellation to be made up of approximately 4,000 cross-linked satellites, more than twice the number of operational satellites in orbit at the time.
February 2015: SpaceX Asks FCC to Consider Innovative Uses of Ka-Band Spectrum
In February 2015, SpaceX asked the FCC to consider future innovative uses of the Ka-band spectrum before the FCC commits to 5G communications regulations that would create barriers to entry, positioning SpaceX as a new entrant in the satellite communications market.
February 2015: Financial analysts question geosynchronous orbit communications satellite fleet operators
In February 2015, financial analysts questioned established geosynchronous orbit communications satellite fleet operators as to how they intended to respond to the competitive threat of SpaceX and OneWeb LEO communication satellites.
June 2015: SpaceX Announces Starlink Plans
In June 2015, SpaceX announced its plans to launch the first two demonstration satellites for the Starlink constellation.
October 2015: Business case for satellite network still in early phase
In October 2015, SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell indicated that while development continues, the business case for the long-term rollout of an operational satellite network was still in an early phase.
2015: Samsung proposes satellite constellation
In 2015, a proposal from Samsung outlined a 4,600-satellite constellation orbiting at 1,400 km (870 mi) that could provide a zettabyte per month capacity worldwide. Telesat announced a smaller 117 satellite constellation in 2015 with plans to deliver initial service in 2021.
July 2016: SpaceX acquires creative space in Irvine, California
In July 2016, SpaceX acquired an additional 740 m (8,000 sq ft) creative space in Irvine, California for signal processing, RFIC, and ASIC development for the satellite program.
October 2016: SpaceX focuses on low-cost user equipment design
In October 2016, SpaceX's satellite division focused on the challenge of achieving a sufficiently low-cost design for user equipment.
November 2016: SpaceX files FCC application for NGSO satellite system
In November 2016, SpaceX filed an application with the FCC for a non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellite system using the Ku- and Ka- frequency bands.
2016: SpaceX confirms connection in FCC application and trademarked Starlink name
In 2016, SpaceX confirmed the connection to STEAM in the application to license Starlink with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Also, SpaceX trademarked the name Starlink, inspired by "The Fault in Our Stars".
2016: Target date for demo satellites moved out
SpaceX initially planned to launch the first two demonstration satellites in 2016, but the target date was later moved to 2018.
January 2017: SpaceX takes on a second facility in Redmond
In January 2017 SpaceX had taken on a second 2,800 m (30,000 sq ft) facility in Redmond.
January 2017: SpaceX Expects Annual Revenue from Starlink
In January 2017, SpaceX expected annual revenue from Starlink to reach $12 billion by 2022 and exceed $30 billion by 2025.
March 2017: SpaceX plans for V-band satellites filed with FCC
In March 2017, SpaceX filed plans with the FCC for a second orbital shell of over 7,500 V-band satellites in non-geosynchronous orbits for communications services at 340 km altitude, in addition to the original 4,425 satellites planned for Ka- and Ku-bands at 1,200 km.
September 2017: FCC sets deployment requirements for Starlink constellation
In September 2017, the FCC ruled that half of the constellation must be in orbit within six years, and the full system within nine years, to comply with licensing terms.
October 2017: Market players cancel some planned investments
By October 2017, the expectation for large increases in satellite network capacity from emerging lower-altitude broadband constellations caused market players to cancel some planned investments in new geosynchronous orbit broadband communications satellites.
2017: SpaceX files documents with FCC to clarify space debris mitigation plan
In late 2017, SpaceX filed documents with the FCC to clarify their space debris mitigation plan.
February 2018: First Starlink Satellites Launched
Between February 2018 and May 2024, SpaceX successfully launched over 6,000 Starlink satellites into orbit, which includes prototypes and satellites that failed later, or were de-orbited before entering operational service.
February 2018: Launch of two test satellites
In February 2018, SpaceX launched two test satellites for Starlink.
February 22, 2018: Launch of Tintin A and Tintin B test satellites
On February 22, 2018, SpaceX began flight testing its satellite technologies with the launch of two test satellites, originally called MicroSat-2a and MicroSat-2b, but renamed Tintin A and Tintin B. They were launched via a Falcon 9 rocket alongside the Paz satellite.
March 2018: FCC approves SpaceX's initial satellite deployment
In March 2018, the FCC granted SpaceX approval for the initial 4,425 satellites, with conditions including obtaining separate approval from the ITU and achieving a high level of de-orbiting reliability.
May 2018: SpaceX Estimates Starlink Constellation Costs
In May 2018, SpaceX estimated the total cost of designing, building and deploying the constellation would be at least US$10 billion.
August 2018: SpaceX consolidates operations at Redmond Ridge Corporate Center
In August 2018, SpaceX consolidated all Seattle-area operations with a move to a larger three-building facility at Redmond Ridge Corporate Center to support satellite manufacturing in addition to R&D.
November 2018: Amazon announces AWS ground station unit
In November 2018, Amazon announced a large network of twelve satellite ground station facilities (the "AWS ground station unit").
November 2018: SpaceX plans for initial shell of satellites
In November 2018, SpaceX announced its intention to operate an initial shell of approximately 1600 satellites in the constellation at around 550 km orbital altitude, similar to the orbits of Tintin A and B.
November 2018: Regulatory approval for V-band satellites
In November 2018, SpaceX received U.S. regulatory approval to deploy 7,518 V-band broadband satellites, adding to the 4,425 satellites approved earlier, although these V-band plans were later withdrawn by 2022. SpaceX also filed a request to alter its license to operate approximately 1,600 Ka-/Ku-band satellites at a lower altitude of 550 km.
February 2019: Request filed for Earth station operation license
In February 2019, SpaceX Services Incorporated, a sister company of SpaceX, filed a request with the FCC to obtain a license for the operation of up to one million fixed satellite Earth stations to communicate with the Starlink system.
April 2019: Amazon announces Project Kuiper
In April 2019, Amazon announced a large broadband internet satellite constellation, planning to launch 3,236 satellites in the next decade in what the company calls "Project Kuiper", a satellite constellation that will work in concert with Amazon's previously announced large network of twelve satellite ground station facilities (the "AWS ground station unit") announced in November 2018.
April 2019: FCC approves satellite deployment
In April 2019, the FCC approved SpaceX's request to place nearly 12,000 satellites in three orbital shells: 1,600 in a 550 km shell, 2,800 Ku- and Ka-band satellites at 1,150 km, and 7,500 V-band satellites at 340 km. A possible extension to 42,000 satellites was considered as of 2019.
May 2019: Launch of Starlink v0.9 satellites
In May 2019, SpaceX launched 60 Starlink v0.9 satellites, marking a significant milestone in the development of the constellation.
May 2019: First 60 satellites launched
In May 2019, SpaceX launched the first 60 Starlink satellites into a 550 km orbit as part of the initial deployment phase.
May 2019: First batch of operational Starlink satellites launched
In May 2019, the first batch of 60 operational Starlink satellites were launched.
May 2019: First Significant Deployment of Starlink Satellites
In May 2019, the first significant deployment of 60 Starlink satellites occurred, with each satellite weighing 227 kg. SpaceX placed the satellites at a relatively low 550 km due to concerns about space debris and fuel issues.
June 2019: SpaceX applies for ground terminal testing license
In June 2019, SpaceX applied to the FCC for a license to test up to 270 ground terminals - 70 nationwide across the United States and 200 in Washington state at SpaceX employee homes - and aircraft-borne antenna operation from four distributed United States airfields; as well as five ground-to-ground test locations.
October 15, 2019: FCC filings for additional Starlink satellites
On October 15, 2019, the United States FCC submitted filings to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on SpaceX's behalf to arrange spectrum for 30,000 additional Starlink satellites to supplement the 12,000 already approved by the FCC. In October 2019, Elon Musk publicly tested the Starlink network by using an Internet connection routed through the network to post a tweet to Twitter.
November 2019: Launch of Starlink v1.0 satellites
Since November 2019, SpaceX has been launching Starlink v1.0 satellites, incorporating additional characteristics and improvements over previous versions.
November 20, 2019: Signal loss recorded at CTIO
On November 20, 2019, the four-meter (13') Blanco telescope of the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO) recorded strong signal loss and the appearance of 19 white lines on a DECam shot. This image noise was correlated to the transit of a Starlink satellite train, launched a week earlier, raising concerns about light pollution.
2019: Starlink Transitions to Manufacturing
By late 2019, SpaceX was transitioning their satellite efforts from research and development to manufacturing, with the planned first launch of a large group of satellites to orbit.
2019: SpaceX begins Starlink satellite launches
In 2019, SpaceX began launching Starlink satellites into space.
2019: US Air Force Research Laboratory tests Starlink data link with aircraft
In 2019, tests by the United States Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) demonstrated a 610 Mbit/s data link through Starlink to a Beechcraft C-12 Huron aircraft in flight.
March 2020: SpaceX producing six satellites per day
In March 2020, SpaceX reported a production rate of six Starlink satellites per day, highlighting the rapid scaling of the project.
April 2020: SpaceX requests to lower satellite orbits
Initially requesting to lower the first 1584 satellites, in April 2020, SpaceX requested to lower all other higher satellite orbits to about 550 km (340 mi). In April 2020, SpaceX modified the architecture of the Starlink network by submitting an application to the FCC proposing to operate more satellites in lower orbits in the first phase.
April 17, 2020: SpaceX to test methods mitigating light pollution
On April 17, 2020, SpaceX wrote in an FCC filing that it would test new methods of mitigating light pollution caused by Starlink satellites. It also pledged to provide access to satellite tracking data for astronomers.
June 2020: SpaceX requests authorization for Canada
In June 2020, SpaceX formally requested authorization for Starlink services in Canada.
June 2020: Customer Antenna Photos Appear Online
In June 2020, photos of the Starlink customer antennas were first seen on the internet, supporting earlier statements by SpaceX CEO Musk that the terminals would look like a "UFO on a stick". The antenna is known internally as "Dishy McFlatface".
July 2020: Approvals for Starlink ground stations
As of July 2020, SpaceX had received approvals for five Starlink ground stations located in five different states within the United States.
July 2020: Starlink Limited Beta Service Opens
In July 2020, Starlink's limited beta internet service was opened to invitees from the public. Invitees had to sign non-disclosure agreements, and were charged a small amount to test billing.
September 2020: SpaceX Applies for Permission to Put Terminals on Ships
In September 2020, SpaceX applied for permission to put terminals on 10 of its ships, indicating an intention to enter the maritime market.
October 2020: Launch of "Better Than Nothing Beta" Service
In October 2020, SpaceX launched a paid-for beta service in the U.S. called "Better Than Nothing Beta", charging $499 for a user terminal, with expected service of 50 to 150 Mbit/s and latency from 20 to 40 ms over the next several months.
October 2020: Starlink Wider Public Beta Launched
In October 2020, a wider public beta for Starlink was launched, charging beta testers the full monthly cost while allowing them to speak freely about their experience.
October 2020: Analysis finds sunshades only marginally fainter
In October 2020, an analysis found that the Starlink satellites equipped with sunshades were only marginally fainter than the DarkSat, indicating limited effectiveness in reducing brightness.
October 2020: SDA awards SpaceX contract to develop missile tracking satellites
In October 2020, the SDA awarded SpaceX an initial $150 million dual-use contract to develop 4 satellites to detect and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles.
October 2020: Over 200 Starlink satellites with sunshades
As of October 15, 2020, over 200 Starlink satellites had been equipped with a sunshade to reduce brightness and mitigate light pollution. An October 2020 analysis found them to be only marginally fainter than DarkSat.
November 6, 2020: Canada Approves Starlink
On November 6, 2020, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada announced regulatory approval for the Starlink low Earth orbit satellite constellation, making Canada the first country outside the U.S. to approve the service.
November 2020: Canadian regulatory authority approves Starlink
In November 2020, the Canadian regulatory authority approved SpaceX's request for Starlink services.
2020: No more public information on Samsung constellation
By 2020, no more public information had been released about the Samsung constellation announced in 2015.
2020: SpaceX hires retired General Terrence J. O'Shaughnessy
In 2020, SpaceX hired retired four-star general Terrence J. O'Shaughnessy, who is associated with Starlink's military satellite development and is listed as a "chief operating officer" at SpaceX.
2020: Air Force uses Starlink in live-fire exercise
In 2020, the Air Force used Starlink in support of its Advanced Battlefield management system during a live-fire exercise. They demonstrated Starlink connected to a "variety of air and terrestrial assets" including the Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker.
2020: Successful Testing of Inter-Satellite Laser Links
In late 2020, the inter-satellite laser links used by Starlink were successfully tested.
2020: Continuous coverage expected
SpaceX expected continuous coverage in 2020 with 720 satellites (12 launches of 60 satellites each) after launching the first 60 satellites in May 2019.
2020: Global Chip Shortage
The 2020-2023 global chip shortage impacted Starlink terminal production, causing delays.
January 2021: Brightness at 31% of the original design
A January 2021 study found that the brightness of Starlink satellites had been reduced to 31% of the original design, reflecting the impact of mitigation efforts to address light pollution concerns.
January 2021: Beta Service Extended to Other Continents
From January 2021, the paid-for beta service launched in October 2020 was extended to other continents, starting with the United Kingdom.
January 2021: SpaceX rolls out Starlink service in Canada
In January 2021, SpaceX rolled out Starlink service in Canada.
January 24, 2021: Launch of Starlink v1.5 satellites
Since January 24, 2021, SpaceX has been launching Starlink v1.5 satellites, which include additional features and enhancements.
February 2021: NRECA urges FCC to vet SpaceX subsidy applications
In February 2021, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) urged the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to "actively, and aggressively, and thoughtfully vet" the subsidy applications of SpaceX and other broadband providers. Starlink was specifically criticized for being still in beta testing and for unproven technology.
March 2021: SpaceX applies for mobile Starlink terminal variations
In March 2021, SpaceX submitted an application to the FCC for mobile variations of Starlink terminals designed for vehicles, vessels, and aircraft.
April 2021: FCC approves the use of E-band
In April 2021, the FCC approved SpaceX's application for use of the E-band in their Starlink constellation, enabling higher bandwidth communication.
May 2021: Study finds potential for increased interference
According to a May 2021 study, a large number of fast-moving transmitting stations (i.e., satellites) will cause further interference. While new analysis methods could mitigate some effects, data loss is inevitable, increasing the time needed for each study and limiting the overall amount of science done.
May 2021: SpaceX tests mobile Starlink use on rocket prototype
In May 2021, SpaceX tested high-altitude low-velocity mobile use of Starlink transceivers on a rocket prototype.
2021: Chinese authorities complain to UN about Starlink satellites
In 2021, Chinese authorities lodged a complaint with the United Nations, stating that their space station had performed evasive maneuvers that year to avoid Starlink satellites. The Chinese delegates stated that the continuously maneuvering Starlink satellites posed a collision risk and that two close encounters with the satellites in July and October constituted dangers to the life or health of astronauts aboard the Chinese Tiangong space station.
2021: Starlink Pre-Orders Open to the Public
In early 2021, pre-orders for Starlink were first opened to the public in the United States and Canada.
2021: Starlink terminal production delayed
Starlink terminal production was delayed by the 2020–2023 global chip shortage leading to only 5,000 subscribers for the last two months of 2021.
2021: Telesat plans to deliver initial service
Telesat announced a smaller 117 satellite constellation in 2015 with plans to deliver initial service in 2021.
January 2022: SpaceX deploys national security satellites for the U.S. government
In January 2022, SpaceX deployed four national security satellites for the U.S. government on their Transporter-3 rideshare mission.
February 3, 2022: Launch of Starlink Group 4-7
On February 3, 2022, 49 satellites were launched as Starlink Group 4–7.
February 8, 2022: NTIA warns FCC about potential impact of Starlink
On February 8, 2022, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), on behalf of NASA and the NSF, submitted a formal letter to the FCC, warning about the potential impact of the Starlink constellation on low Earth orbit. The letter cited increased collision risk, impact on science missions, rocket launches, the International Space Station, and radio frequencies.
February 2022: IAU establishes center to address satellite effects
In February 2022, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) established a center to help astronomers deal with the adverse effects of satellite constellations such as Starlink, including developing software tools, advancing policies, and working with industry.
April 25, 2022: Hawaiian Airlines to Use Starlink
On April 25, 2022, Hawaiian Airlines announced an agreement with Starlink to provide free internet access on its aircraft, becoming the first airline to use Starlink.
May 2022: Average Starlink satellite collision-avoidance maneuvers
As of May 2022, the average Starlink satellite had conducted fewer than three collision-avoidance maneuvers over the preceding 6 months.
May 2022: Chinese military researchers describe strategy for destroying Starlink
In May 2022, Chinese military researchers published an article describing a strategy for destroying the Starlink constellation if they threaten national security. The researchers specifically highlight concerns with reported Starlink military capabilities.
May 2022: Starlink Enters the Philippine Market
In May 2022, Starlink entered the Philippine market, marking its first deployment in Asia. This move was facilitated by a legislative change (RA 11659, Public Services Act) allowing full foreign ownership of utility entities. Starlink received provisional permission from the DICT, NTC, and DTI and began commercial services, targeting regions with lower internet connectivity.
May 2022: Regulatory Approvals Granted for Nigeria, Mozambique, and the Philippines
In May 2022, regulatory approval was granted for Starlink in Nigeria, Mozambique, and the Philippines.
June 2022: IAU releases website for satellite tracking
In June 2022, the IAU released a website for astronomers to track satellites, helping them avoid and time observations for minimal impact on current work. This is aimed to mitigate some adverse effects of satellite constellations.
July 2022: Starlink Available in 36 Countries
By July 2022, Starlink internet service was available in 36 countries and 41 markets.
July 2022: Starlink Maritime service becomes available
In July 2022, Starlink Maritime became available, offering internet access on the open ocean with speeds of 350 Mbit/s. This service requires a maritime-grade user terminal costing $10,000 and a monthly service fee of $5,000.
August 2022: SpaceX regulatory filings for Gen2 satellites
In August 2022, SpaceX made formal regulatory filings with the FCC, indicating they would build satellites of the second-generation (Gen2) constellation in two different form factors: one for launching on Falcon 9 and one for launching on Starship. Starlink v2 is larger and heavier than Starlink v1 satellites.
August 2022: SpaceX lowers Starlink monthly service costs in select countries
In August 2022, SpaceX reduced monthly service costs for Starlink users in select countries, including Brazil and Chile, with fee decreases of about 50%.
August 2022: SpaceX Secures Contract with Royal Caribbean Group
In August 2022, SpaceX secured its first contract in the passenger shipping industry with Royal Caribbean Group. Royal Caribbean planned to add Starlink internet to Freedom of the Seas and offer the service on 50 ships under its Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises brands by March 2023.
August 2022: Technical Architecture Details Revealed by Security Specialist
In August 2022, security specialist Lennert Wouters presented several technical architecture details about the then-current Starlink terminals, including the STMicroelectronics custom-designed chip Catson, digital beam former Shiraz, and front-end module Pulsarad.
August 2022: FCC revokes $885.5 million in Starlink subsidies
In August 2022, the FCC revoked the $885.5 million federal subsidies awarded to SpaceX for Starlink to support rural broadband customers, citing a failure to demonstrate the ability to deliver the promised service.
September 2022: Starlink services available in 40 countries
As of September 2022, Starlink broadband services were available in 40 countries due to landing rights requirements and other business considerations.
September 2022: Trials Begin at McMurdo Station, Antarctica
In September 2022, trials of Starlink began at McMurdo Station in Antarctica.
September 2022: Original schedule for missile tracking satellites launch
The first batch of satellites to detect and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles, which were developed by SpaceX under contract with the SDA, were originally scheduled to launch in September 2022.
October 2022: Musk Tweet on Starlink Terminals in Iran
In October 2022, Elon Musk tweeted that the number of Starlink terminals operating within Iran was "approaching 100". This information was later cited by Iran to demonstrate SpaceX's ability to track user terminal locations, during a dispute with the ITU in October 2023 and March 2024.
December 1, 2022: FCC Approves SpaceX to Launch Initial Satellites for Gen2 Constellation
On December 1, 2022, the FCC issued an approval for SpaceX to launch the initial 7500 satellites for its second-generation (Gen2) constellation, in three low-Earth-orbit orbital shells, at 525, 530, and 535 km altitude.
December 2022: Starlink Trials on Field Missions in Antarctica
From December 2022, Starlink trials began on field missions in Antarctica, complementing the trials that started at McMurdo Station in September 2022.
December 2022: SpaceX announces Starshield service for government and military use
In December 2022, SpaceX announced Starshield, a separate Starlink service designed for government entities and military agencies. Starshield will enable the U.S. Department of Defense to own or lease Starshield satellites.
December 2022: Starlink reaches 1 million subscribers
In December 2022, Starlink announced that it had reached more than 1 million subscribers.
2022: Starlink speeds degrade as more customers sign up
According to internet analysis company Ookla, Starlink speeds degraded during the first half of 2022 as more customers signed up for the service. SpaceX indicated that speeds would improve as more satellites are deployed.
2022: Withdrawal of V-band satellite plans
By 2022, SpaceX had withdrawn its plans to field the 7,518-satellite V-band system, replacing it with a more comprehensive design for the second-generation (Gen2) Starlink network.
2022: V-band plans withdrawn
By 2022, SpaceX withdrew the V-band satellite plans that had been approved in November 2018, opting for a second-generation Starlink network design instead.
2022: Musk initially supports Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion
In 2022, Musk initially voiced support for Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion by donating Starlink terminals, but made later decisions to limit Ukrainian access to Starlink, which coincided with Russian pressure in public and in private.
2022: Starlink Revenues and Net Loss Reported
In 2022, Revenues from Starlink were reportedly $1.4 billion accompanied by a net loss.
2022: Starlink Business Service Tier Announcement and FCC Approvals
In 2022, SpaceX announced the Starlink Business service tier, and the FCC approved the licensing of Starlink services to boats, aircraft, and moving vehicles.
2022: Failed Taiwan Deal
In 2022, SpaceX's attempts to sell Starlink service to Taiwan were unsuccessful due to SpaceX's insistence on 100% ownership of the Taiwan subsidiary, conflicting with Taiwanese law mandating that internet service providers are at least 51% controlled by local companies. This was reported in July 2023.
2022: Starlink Business Unit Reports Cash-Flow-Positive Quarter
The Starlink business unit had a single cash-flow-positive quarter during 2022 and is expecting to be profitable in 2023.
February 2023: First batch of Generation 2 spacecraft launched
In February 2023, SpaceX launched the first batch of Generation 2 spacecraft, referred to as "Mini" satellites due to their smaller size compared to the full-sized Gen 2 spacecraft. SpaceX uses brightness mitigation for Gen 2 that includes a mirror-like surface and orientation of the solar panels.
February 2023: Addition of W band frequencies with v2 Mini launch
Until February 2023, Starlink used the Ka-band to connect with ground stations. With the launch of v2 Mini satellites in February 2023, Starlink added frequencies in the 71–86 GHz W band (or E band waveguide) range.
February 22, 2023: Commercial Availability in the Philippines Begins
On February 22, 2023, commercial availability of Starlink began in the Philippines, following regulatory approval in May 2022.
March 2023: Royal Caribbean to offer Starlink on 50 ships
By March 2023, Royal Caribbean Group planned to offer Starlink internet service on 50 ships across its Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises brands, following a contract secured in August 2022.
March 2023: SpaceX application to add V-band payload
In March 2023, SpaceX submitted an application to add V-band payload to the second generation satellites rather than fly phase 2 V-band satellites as originally planned and authorized. The request is subject to FCC approval.
March 2023: Starlink v2 mini satellites manufacturing
In March 2023, the company reported that they were manufacturing six Starlink "v2 mini" satellites per day as well as thousands of users terminals.
April 2023: Rogers and One NZ partner with SpaceX for satellite-to-phone services
In April 2023, Rogers Communications signed an agreement with SpaceX to use Starlink for satellite-to-phone services in Canada. Also in April 2023, One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand) announced a partnership with SpaceX's Starlink to provide 100% mobile network coverage over New Zealand.
April 2023: SpaceX launched batch of satellites to detect and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles
SpaceX launched first batch of satellites to detect and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles in April 2023. This was delayed from original schedule in September 2022.
May 2023: Introduction of form factors with direct-to-cellular capability
In May 2023, SpaceX introduced two more form factors with direct-to-cellular (DtC) capability, expanding the functionalities of the Starlink satellites.
June 2023: Observational study published about Minis brightness
In June 2023, an observational study reported that the Mini satellites are fainter than Gen 1 spacecraft, despite being four times as large. The study found they are 44% as bright as VisorSats, 24% compared to V1.5, and 19% compared to the original design without brightness mitigation. The study also found that Minis appear 12 times brighter before reaching the target orbit.
June 2023: Starlink Receives License in Zambia
In June 2023, the Zambian Government, through its Electronic Government Division – SMART Zambia, granted Starlink a license to offer internet services in Zambia, following the completion of several trial projects throughout the country.
July 2023: Optus partners with Starlink for satellite-to-phone services in Australia
In July 2023, Optus in Australia announced a partnership with SpaceX's Starlink for satellite-to-phone services.
July 2023: Report on Taiwan Deal Fall Through
In July 2023, it was reported that attempts to sell Starlink service to Taiwan in 2022 fell through because SpaceX insisted on 100% ownership of the Taiwan subsidiary. This conflicted with Taiwanese law requiring local companies to control at least 51% of internet service providers.
July 2023: Mongolia Issues Licenses to SpaceX
In July 2023, the Mongolian government issued two licenses to SpaceX to provide internet access in the country.
September 1, 2023: Starshield receives its first contract from the U.S. Space Force
On September 1, 2023, the Starshield program received its first one-year contract from the U.S. Space Force to provide customized satellite communications for the military.
September 2023: United Against Nuclear Iran Donates Starlink Subscriptions to Iranians
In September 2023, United Against Nuclear Iran started donating Starlink subscriptions and terminals to Iranians to circumvent Iran's internet blackout.
September 2023: SES announces satellite internet service for cruise lines using Starlink
In September 2023, satellite operator SES announced a satellite internet service for cruise lines that combines Starlink satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and SES' own O3b mPOWER satellite constellation in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO). Integrated, sold and delivered by SES, the SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink service claims to provide high-speed, secure connectivity at up to 3 Gbit/s per ship to cruise ships anywhere in the world.
September 2023: Reports of Imminent License in India
In September 2023, some Indian news outlets reported that Starlink would soon receive its license to operate in India after meeting all regulatory requirements, but would still need to apply for spectrum allocation.
September 2023: Starshield receives contract from U.S. Space Force
In September 2023, the Starshield program received its first contract from the U.S. Space Force under the "Proliferated Low Earth Orbit" program for LEO satellites. The contract is expected to support 54 mission partners across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
October 2023: Starlink Goes Live in Zambia
In October 2023, Starlink officially launched its services in Zambia, following the granting of a license in June 2023 after the completion of trial projects.
October 2023: Calls for Starlink activation in Gaza after internet service loss
In October 2023, after the Gaza war started, users demanded Elon Musk activate Starlink in Gaza after Internet service in the region was lost. Musk answered that Starlink connectivity would be provided for aid groups in Gaza.
October 2023: Research finds Starlink satellites leaking radio signals
In October 2023, research published in "Astronomy and Astrophysics Letters" reportedly found that Starlink satellites were "leaking radio signals". The research found that at the site of the future Square Kilometer Array, radio emissions from Starlink satellites were brighter than any natural source in the sky and concluded that these emissions will be detrimental to key SKA science goals without future mitigation.
October 2023: ITU Rules in Favor of Iran in Starlink Dispute
In October 2023, the ITU ruled in favor of Iran, dismissing SpaceX's assertion that it shouldn't be expected to verify the location of every terminal. This followed a complaint filed by Iran against SpaceX for unauthorized Starlink operation in Iran.
November 2023: Starlink Receives Licenses to Operate in Fiji
In November 2023, Starlink received the licenses to operate in Fiji.
December 2023: FCC denies SpaceX's appeal for subsidy revocation
In December 2023, the FCC formally denied SpaceX's appeal regarding the revocation of the $885.5 million subsidy for Starlink, stating that SpaceX had not shown it was reasonably capable of fulfilling RDOF's requirements.
2023: Starlink introduces data cap
In 2023, Starlink introduced a monthly 1 TB data cap for all non-business users to improve service quality in densely populated areas. This cap was enforced starting in 2023.
2023: Starlink Reports Small Profit
In 2023, Starlink reportedly started to show a small profit.
2023: Estimated Value of Starlink Project
In 2023, the $10 billion cost from the May 2018 estimate for the Starlink constellation buildout is equivalent to $11,950,000,000.
2023: Starlink used by criminal groups in the Amazon rainforest
In 2023, the Associated Press reported that Brazilian organized criminal groups were making heavy use of Starlink in exploiting remote regions of the Amazon rainforest.
2023: Global Chip Shortage Impacts Resolved
Starlink terminal production being delayed by the 2020–2023 global chip shortage but this was soon resolved.
January 2, 2024: Launch of first cell phone capable Starlink satellites
On January 2, 2024, the first six cell phone capable Starlink satellites were launched.
January 8, 2024: SpaceX tests text messaging using Direct-to-Cell capability
On January 8, 2024, SpaceX confirmed that they had successfully tested text messaging using the new Direct-to-Cell capability on T-Mobile's network.
February 2024: Virgin Voyages to deploy SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink service
In February 2024, SES announced that Virgin Voyages will be the first cruise line to deploy the SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink service.
April 2024: Trial Service in Indonesia to Begin in May
In April 2024, it was reported that Starlink would begin trial service in Indonesia in May.
April 2024: Reports of "In-Principle Government Approval" in India
In April 2024, some Indian news outlets reported that Starlink had received "in-principle government approval" and that the approval was awaiting final review by the communications minister.
May 2024: 6,000+ Starlink satellites launched into orbit
Between February 2018 and May 2024, SpaceX successfully launched over 6,000 Starlink satellites into orbit, including prototypes and satellites that later failed or were de-orbited before entering operational service.
May 2024: Starlink revenue predictions adjusted
In May 2024, Starlink revenue was expected to reach $6.6 billion, later in the year the prediction was raised to $7.7 billion.
May 2024: Starlink Pre-Orders Open in Sri Lanka
In May 2024, Starlink service was available for pre-order in Sri Lanka, pending regulatory approval.
May 2024: Starlink Service Launched in Fiji
In May 2024, Starlink service was launched in Fiji, following the receipt of licenses in November 2023.
June 2024: Announcement of Starlink Mini
In June 2024, a portable user terminal dubbed "Starlink Mini" was announced to be imminently available. The Mini supports 100 Mbit/s of download speed and will fit in a backpack, with initial rollout in Latin America at a $200 price point.
July 2024: Starlink tests with Romania to improve speed and coverage
In July 2024, SpaceX began testing Starlink with the Romanian Ministry of National Defense and ANCOM to increase the Equivalent Power Flux Density (EPFD) limit safely. The goal of these tests is to improve the speed and coverage area of Starlink without impacting geostationary satellites. The test results may influence changes to International Telecommunication Union rules established in the 1990s.
August 2024: Starlink Receives License to Operate in Yemen
In August 2024, Starlink received the licenses to operate in Yemen, with plans to implement services through corporation's sales points across most governorates, offering device sales, activation, subscription fee payments, and direct technical support.
September 2024: Starlink reaches 4 million subscribers
In September 2024, Starlink announced that it had reached 4 million subscribers.
October 2024: Musk's contact with Russian officials
In October 2024, the Wall Street Journal reported that Musk had been in regular contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin and other high ranking Russian government officials since late 2022, discussing personal topics, business and geopolitical matters.
November 2024: Morocco Expected to Approve Starlink by 2025
As of November 2024, Morocco is set to give regulatory approval to Starlink by 2025.
November 2024: Musk pledges continued Starlink support for Ukraine
In a November 2024 call with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Musk said he will continue supporting Ukraine through Starlink.
2024: T-Mobile and SpaceX partner to add satellite cellular service to Starlink
In 2024, T-Mobile US and SpaceX are partnering to add satellite cellular service capability to Starlink satellites. This will provide dead-zone cell phone coverage across the US using T-Mobile's midband PCS spectrum. Testing is planned to begin in 2024.
2024: Tensions between Brazil and Elon Musk's business ventures escalate
In 2024, tensions between Brazil and Elon Musk's business ventures escalated as the country's telecom regulator Anatel threatened to sanction Starlink after Brazil's top court upheld a ban on X.
2024: SMS text service expected to begin in Canada and New Zealand
SMS text service is expected to begin in 2024, with Rogers Communications in Canada and One NZ in New Zealand, utilizing Starlink for satellite-to-phone services.
January 2025: Lost contact with S33 during Starlink simulator deployment test
On 16 January 2025, SpaceX planned to test the deployment system for a new version of their Starlink satellites. S33 was also expected to deploy ten Starlink "simulators," which were also expected to reenter over the Indian Ocean. However, contact with S33 was lost shortly before its engines were scheduled to shut down.
February 2025: Starlink reports over 5 million customers worldwide
As of February 2025, Starlink reported having more than 5 million customers worldwide.
February 2025: Ukraine pressured for mineral rights with potential Starlink shutdown warning
In February 2025, U.S. negotiators pressured Ukraine to grant access to its critical minerals by warning of a potential Starlink shutdown, crucial to its military operations, after Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected a U.S. proposal for mineral rights in exchange for wartime aid. Musk denied the claims, but Reuters stood by its report. Donald Trump also pushed Ukraine for U.S. access.
February 28, 2025: Meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy in the White House
Three days after the February 28, 2025, meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy in the White House the U.S. suspended all military aid and a day later also intelligence to Ukraine.
March 2025: Musk Claims Starlink Unavailable in South Africa Due to Race
In March 2025, Elon Musk claimed that Starlink was unavailable in South Africa because he was not black, a statement disputed by the South African government.
March 2025: Controversies surrounding Starlink and political involvement
In March 2025, controversies arose concerning Starlink. The director of the United States Department of Commerce's rural broadband program resigned, citing undue emphasis on Starlink from the Trump administration. Musk's political involvement was protested by customers. The Department of Government Efficiency installed a Starlink user terminal at the White House complex, raising conflict of interest concerns, though the White House stated the terminal was donated and approved by legal counsel and the United States Secret Service.
March 2025: Indian Telecom Companies Partner with Starlink
On March 11 and 12, 2025, Indian telecom companies Airtel and Jio partnered with Starlink to bring satellite internet to India, aiming to improve connectivity in remote areas. The service's rollout is dependent on securing necessary government approvals.
2025: Morocco expected to approve Starlink
As of November 2024, Morocco is expected to give regulatory approval to Starlink by 2025.
2025: SpaceX revenue expectations for Starlink
In 2025, SpaceX expected the revenue from Starlink to exceed $30 billion.
2025: Projected Revenue for Starlink
In 2025, Starlink's revenue is expected to reach $11.8 billion.
2025: Voice and data functionality expected in Canada and New Zealand
Voice and data functionality is expected in 2025, with Rogers Communications in Canada and One NZ in New Zealand, utilizing Starlink for satellite-to-phone services.
Mentioned in this timeline
Elon Musk is a businessman primarily known for his involvement...
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Ukraine is an Eastern European country the second largest on...
SpaceX founded in is an American space technology company It...
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