Elon Musk’s SpaceX could monopolise space, feel competitors

The launching of thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit by tech billionaire Elon Musk’s SpaceX threatens the “de-facto monopolisation” of space, the head of competitor Arianespace Stephane Israel has warned.

Elon Musk’s Starlink constellation project recently received authorisation from US regulator the Federal Communications Commission to provide broadband from space and place thousands of satellites lower than previously proposed, angering competitors including Amazon.

SpaceX, which asked the FCC for permission which is going to apply to some 2,800 satellites, plans ultimately to blanket poorly connected and isolated areas of the globe with internet connectivity. But rivals claim the lower altitude could increase the risk of space collisions and heightened radio interference.