Putin praises Musk as Russia and SpaceX discuss satellite coordination
Vladimir Putin praised Elon Musk as a “real genius” and said Russia is in close contact with him about satellite technology. The comments came as Putin promoted Rassvet, Russia’s satellite internet project, and said coordination with the US was important to prevent Rassvet and SpaceX’s Starlink satellites from interfering with each other.
Starlink has launched about 13,000 satellites, while only a couple of dozen Rassvet satellites are currently in orbit, according to online trackers. Russia’s embassy in South Africa described Rassvet as the country’s Starlink alternative and said it was at an early stage. The remarks come amid closer US-Russia contacts and recent Starlink connectivity problems affecting Ukraine’s military; Musk has said SpaceX deliberately caused those problems.
In short
- Putin praised Musk and said they are in close contact.
- Russia is developing Rassvet as a satellite internet alternative.
- Starlink has about 13,000 satellites; Rassvet has a couple of dozen.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Coordination between Russia and SpaceX could reduce the risk of satellite interference, protect services relied on by civilians and other users, and make better use of crowded orbital and radio-frequency resources. Supporters could also argue that discussing technical issues need not imply political alignment, and that a Russian alternative to Starlink may broaden access to satellite internet.
The case against
Critics could argue that closer coordination with Moscow over a strategically important communications network risks giving Russia greater insight into its capabilities or leverage over a service with military consequences. Given Starlink’s role in Ukraine and the reported connectivity problems there, they may also question whether praising Musk and presenting Rassvet as an alternative obscures the security and political stakes of such cooperation.
Explained simply
Satellite internet uses networks of satellites in low Earth orbit to provide online access, including in places where ground-based connections are limited. SpaceX, the company founded by Elon Musk, operates Starlink, while Russia is developing Rassvet as its own satellite internet service.
Vladimir Putin is Russia’s president, and Musk leads SpaceX. The two systems would operate in the same broad orbital environment, so their operators may need to coordinate to reduce the risk of satellites interfering with one another.
The issue also has wider political and security implications because satellite internet can support communications during conflicts. Starlink has been used in Ukraine, and Russia’s Rassvet project is at an early stage, with far fewer satellites in orbit.
Europe Government Politics Science Space Technology World
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by BBC Technology as “Elon Musk is a ‘real genius’, Putin says after satellite talks with SpaceX boss”.