Elon Musk’s space internet is already being used in areas devastated by wildfires

Tuesday 29 September 2020 12:00 BST

SpaceX Starlink satellites have proved controversial with astronomers (YouTube)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Emergency responders in the US have become one of the first users of Elon Musk’s Starlink internet project, which beams high-speed broadband down to Earth from a constellation of satellites.

“Happy to have the support of SpaceX’s Starlink internet as emergency responders look to help residents rebuild the town of Malden, WA that was overcome by wildfires earlier this month,” the division tweeted on Monday.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering

Elon Musk’s space internet is already being used in areas devastated by wildfires

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering