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Musk's Race for Space
The Earth's skies have never been so full. From the dawn of the satellite era in 1957 until Starlink's first launch in May 2019, one new satellite entered orbit, on average, every five days. Since then, it has been one every five hours. This unprecedented constellation of satellites is essential to realise Starlink's goal – fast, affordable internet for anyone on Earth. For many, this service has been a lifeline.
Google In Talks To Take Virgin Galactic Stake
Sky News has revealed that discussions with Virgin Galactic are part of Google’s ambitious project to put hundreds of satellites in low-Earth orbit in an attempt to extend Internet access to billions of people.
Negotiations between the two companies have been taking place for months, and are said to be at an advanced stage. The talks are likely to lead to a deal with two main elements, according to insiders.
The first will see Google inject hundreds of millions of dollars into a joint venture, with Virgin Galactic folding in the technology it has developed as part of its efforts to build the world’s first space tourism business. The second component will involve Google spending roughly $30 million in return for a small stake in the Virgin Galactic holding company.
The terms of the alliance have not yet been finalized and could yet be altered before a deal is struck.