Starlink Project

It is a SpaceX Starlink project, launched in 2019, to build a broadband network with a cluster of thousands of orbiting satellites.
The goal of the project is to create a low-cost, satellite-based broadband network that can provide global internet access.
The Starlink satellites will be placed in an altitude range between 350 km and 1,200 km in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Reduced latency between sender and receiver as the satellites are placed in LEO.
It can deliver internet to remote parts of world, where traditional ways (fiber-optic cables) has failed to deliver internet.

Owing to their lower height, their signals cover a relatively small area. As a result, many more satellites are needed in order to reach signals to every part of the earth.
It increases number of satellites in space and thereby increasing space debris and increased risk of collisions.

Environmental concerns

A recent study found that Starlink’s second-generation satellites — which currently account for less than a third of the network — emit unintended electromagnetic radiation (UEMR) at levels 32 times brighter than its first-generation satellites. This is said to impede the work of radio astronomers observing the sky from Earth.

Scientists have also raised alarms about their serious threat to the environment. This year, about 120 SpaceX Starlink satellites burnt up in Earth’s atmosphere. These satellite re-entries result in the release of aluminum oxide particles that could, in the long run, damage the Earth’s ozone layer.

Starlink promises to offer internet services at faster speeds and lower latency than fixed-line broadband service providers. However, experts are concerned about whether the SpaceX division can keep up with rising user demand.
In the US, Starlink has so far failed to reach 100 megabits per second download and 20Mbps upload speeds — which is the benchmark set by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for a service to be defined as broadband, according to a report by CNET.

The internet services obtained from Geostationary Satellites have the advantage

Better coverage with lesser number of satellites. Roughly 3 or 4 satellites is enough to cover whole earth.
Since, these satellites appear to be stationary, linkage is easier.

Disadvantage-High latency due to it being placed at 35,786 km over the Earth’s equator

India has already initiated several indigenous efforts to develop its satellite internet capabilities:

ISRO-Hughes Satellite Program: This initiative uses 48 transponders with Ka-band technology to improve rural connectivity.
Private Sector Initiatives: Partnerships like One Web-Bharti and plans by Tata and L&T’s space technology division are making progress in satellite internet services.
Start-up Ecosystem: Several Indian start-ups are exploring innovative satellite internet solutions, although they are still in the early stages of development.

The Indian government has introduced a new administrative method for spectrum allocation, allowing space satellite operators to provide internet services in the country, unlike traditional auctions.
The spectrum for satellite services will be allocated administratively, though it will not be without cost.
The pricing and allocation formula will be determined by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
This change is seen as advantageous for companies like SpaceX, as satellite services typically involve expensive auction processes that raise costs for operators.
With administrative allocation, the entry barrier for satellite service providers will be lower, fostering a more competitive and level playing field.
This shift is being praised for its technological neutrality.
However, it has also faced opposition from major telecom companies like Reliance and Airtel who suggested doing it through auctions.