Is the star chain a Walker constellation? _ What is a star chain?

Star Chain is a project of American Space Exploration Technology Company.

The Star Chain Project was announced by Musk, CEO of American Space Exploration Technology Company in June 2065438+2005. From 20 19 to 2024, the project built a network of 12000 satellites in space.

Among them, 1584 satellites will be deployed in low-earth orbit 550 kilometers above the earth, and all satellites will eventually be connected into a constellation, with the goal of providing high-speed and low-cost satellite internet for the whole earth (including Antarctica) around the clock. By 2020, about 360 satellites will cover most areas of the United States and Canada in orbit, and it will take 24 launches to achieve global coverage.

Star chain planning process

On June 5438+ 10, 2022, Space Exploration Technology Company launched its fifth New Year launch, and its satellites were connected with 25 countries. ?

In June 5438 +2022 10, William Wiltshire, a lawyer of Space Exploration Technology Company, said in a letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that he planned to launch the second-generation starship rocket as early as March this year.

65438+20221October 16, Musk disclosed on social media that 1469 "Star Chain" satellites are running, 272 satellites are entering orbit, and satellite laser link communication will be activated soon.

On February 3, 2022 13: 03 EST, space exploration technology company Falcon 9 rocket launched 49 satellite chains at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. According to the estimation of Space Exploration Technology Company, 40 of the 49 satellite chains launched on February 3rd will be destroyed by magnetic storms.

On February 4, 2022, Space Exploration Technology Company launched the latest Starlink mission. A Falcon -9 rocket carrying 49 satellite chains was launched for the sixth time from launch site 39A (LC-39A) of Kennedy Space Center in Florida and entered low earth orbit.