Starlink gets final nod to launch its services

Elon Musk-owned Starlink has cleared the last regulatory hurdle to begin offering satellite-based internet in India.

- Jatin Grover

The company has received authorization from the Indian National Space Promotion & Authorization Centre, or IN-SPACe, for its Gen 1 constellation capacity over India, showed the space regulator's website.

The authorization has been given for five years till 7 July 2030. Of around 6,750 satellites, Starlink has over 4,000 first-generation satellites, according to NewSpace Index.

“Starlink was given the approval after following the necessary process and performing all the checks,” an official said on the condition of anonymity.

Jio Platforms’ joint venture partner, Luxembourg-based SES, has also secured authorization for a total of 24 satellites over India, the In-SPACe website showed.

IN-SPACe, under the space department, oversees space activities in the country, particularly by private players.