SpaceX aims for 12 launches a month as it eyes satellite-based phone service

SpaceX, the aerospace company led by Elon Musk, has set a lofty goal of conducting 12 launches per month, or one launch every three days, according to reports. The company plans to scale up its launch frequency to support its satellite-based cell phone service, Starlink.

In an interview with ArsTechnica, a company official revealed that SpaceX is planning for 144 launches in the coming year. The objective is to put more Starlink satellites into orbit to enhance the capabilities of the cellphone service. Initially, Starlink will offer text-based communications starting from next year, with voice and data services expected to be available in 2025 and beyond. The official stated that the increase in launches is necessary to refresh the constellation of satellites and enable direct communication with cell phones using Starlink.

SpaceX has been making significant strides in its launch capabilities. Last year, the company launched 61 missions, and within the past 12 months, they have successfully launched 88 rockets plus a test flight of the Starship rocket. The effective recovery and reuse of Falcon 9 boosters and payload fairings have been crucial in achieving these milestones.

Recent reports also highlighted that SpaceX successfully launched 23 more Starlink internet satellites into orbit. This mission marked the company’s second launch within just 24 hours. The deployment of these satellites aims to provide affordable internet access to customers worldwide. Currently, there are 4,900 operational Starlink satellites in space.

As SpaceX continues to expand its services, it has set its sights on entering the Indian internet market. The satellite internet service generated $1.4 billion in revenue last year, significantly surpassing the $222 million generated in 2021. Despite not meeting its initial projections by $11 billion, SpaceX remains focused on delivering reliable and accessible internet connectivity to a global customer base. ISP