SpaceX internet project advancing

Aerospace firm SpaceX has been granted a second round of government approval to provide high-speed internet to Canadians through a constellation of satellites.

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada said on Friday it approved SpaceX’s Starlink program, which aims to offer broadband internet in areas where connections tend to be unreliable, expensive, or completely unavailable.

“Our government recognizes that high-speed Internet access is no longer a luxury — it is essential,” said Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry Navdeep Bains of the project’s approval.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how much we all rely on digital connections. Now more than ever, Canadians are working, learning and communicating with friends and family from home.”

ISED’s signoff comes after the Canadian Radiotelevision and Telecommunications Commission granted its license in mid-October. The company’s website says it is targeting a 2020 launch for services in the northern U.S. and Canada.

After being asked when Canadians can try the service, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk tweeted on Nov. 5 that he was just “awaiting approval from Canadian authorities.” SpaceX has said it will dim the brightness of the low-earth satellites to avoid light pollution after some Canadians raise the concern during the CRTC approval process.

“This regulatory approval will allow them to begin using their Starlink Constellation to provide high speed internet connectivity to rural and remote communities in Canada,” Bains said.