Global Internet

SpaceX recently expanded its beta test of Starlink – a satellite-based service designed to provide high-speed internet anywhere on the planet. With nearly 900 satellites already in place, it is working with rural organizations to bring its “Better Than Nothing Beta” program to remote areas in the United States and Canada, with global coverage targeted for 2021.

In partnership with Microsoft, Starlink is planned to connect with the Azure cloud computing network to offer computing capabilities in remote areas where service was previously unavailable. The company has estimated it will cost $10 billion to complete the network; however, the annual revenues are projected to be as high as $30 billion.