SpaceX’s Elon Musk Aims for Starship-Powered Starlink Deployment in 2024

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk is optimistic that 2024 may finally witness the deployment of Starlink satellites using the Starship spacecraft. Speaking at the International Astronautical Congress 2023, Musk expressed his hopes for deploying Starlink V3 satellites within a year. This marks the first mention of V3 Starlink satellites, hinting at upgrades to the space-based internet network.

Currently, SpaceX utilizes the reusable Falcon 9 rocket for launching V2 Starlink satellites, with each launch carrying up to 22 satellites. In contrast, Starship has the potential to significantly accelerate satellite deployment, capable of carrying 50 to 100 Starlink satellites per launch. However, Starship remains a work in progress, with a delay in operational plans due to an April test flight resulting in an explosion and environmental damage, pending regulatory approval for a second test flight.

Musk acknowledged that the challenge of ensuring safe ship reentry and landing remains a significant obstacle. In the meantime, SpaceX continues to rely on the smaller Falcon 9 rockets. Despite their reliability, Falcon 9 rockets require several days for refurbishment and relaunch, whereas Starship is designed for rapid and full reusability.

As of now, the Starlink network comprises over 4,800 active satellites, with plans to expand it to tens of thousands, contingent on regulatory approval. While the timeline has shifted, Musk’s vision for the future of global internet connectivity remains steadfast, with Starship playing a pivotal role in achieving that ambition.