Starlink Satellites go to India: IN-SPACe grants authorization to Starlink Satellite Communications Pvt Ltd

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has granted authorization to M/s Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited, New Delhi (SSCPL) for enabling provisioning of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites constellation, namely Starlink Gen1. The authorization will enable SSCPL to  provide satellite communication services in India.

IN-SPACe authorization to SSCPL has a validity period of five years from the date of authorization or end of operational life of Gen1 constellation – whichever is earlier. The roll-out of services is subject to the stipulated regulatory provisions and requisite clearance/approval/license from the relevant government department(s).

The Starlink Gen1 Constellation is a global constellation with 4408 satellites orbiting earth with altitudes varying between 540-570Km capable to provide ~600 Gbps throughput over India.

This authorization is in favor of Elon Musk-owned SpaceX, which runs Starlink. The constellation would have the capability to instantly beam an internet connection to rural and remote regions of India where right now even faint mobile coverage is not available. The overall volume of spectrum available to Starlink and its pricing is estimated to be approximately INR60,000 for the hardware, and INR3,500 in monthly fees. However, government levies could push these numbers up making it a tricky proposition at scale, the government has spoken of leveraging satellite internet in remote government offices.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a press release and has been published with minimal modifications for clarity and formatting.