· x report · 3 min read
X Report 16 May 2025
Today's brief highlights the launch of United Airlines' Starlink Wi-Fi on passenger flights, updates on Starship development, and SpaceX's push to position Starlink as a GPS alternative in recent FCC discussions.

🚀 Latest Developments
In today’s roundup, United Airlines has successfully tested Starlink Wi-Fi on passenger flights, marking a significant milestone for in-flight connectivity. Additionally, SpaceX conducted a successful static fire test for its upcoming Starship Flight 9, while also advocating for Starlink as an alternative to traditional GPS services in regulatory discussions.
📰 Detailed Coverage
United Airlines Debuts Starlink Wi-Fi on Detroit Flight
United Airlines has officially implemented Starlink Wi-Fi on its passenger flights, demonstrating its commitment to providing enhanced connectivity for travelers. The successful test flight landed in Detroit and signals a rollout for mainline flights later this year, showcasing the growing integration of SpaceX’s technology in commercial aviation.
With in-flight Wi-Fi becoming increasingly essential, this partnership sets a new standard for connectivity and places SpaceX’s Starlink at the forefront of the competition in satellite internet services.
Read the full story: TESLARATI
Starship Flight 9: Is Next Week Launch Week?
SpaceX has conducted a successful static fire test for its Starship Flight 9 vehicle at its Texas test site, confirming both stages are ready for launch. The prospects of a launch next week are promising, marking a crucial step forward in SpaceX’s ambitious exploration goals.
This event not only represents a milestone for the Starship program but also intensifies competition among private space companies aiming for breakthroughs in space travel and transportation.
Read the full story: Space Explored
SpaceX Touts Starlink as GPS Alternative in FCC PNT Push
In its latest initiative, SpaceX has presented Starlink as a potential alternative for Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) services during discussions with the FCC. This strategic move highlights the versatility of Starlink’s infrastructure beyond just broadband services.
As demand for reliable GPS alternatives grows, this could set a new pathway for Starlink in various sectors, enhancing its value proposition in the satellite internet ecosystem.
Read the full story: TESLARATI
Live Coverage: SpaceX Plans Morning Launch of Starlink Satellites from California
This morning, SpaceX is targeting a launch of its Starlink 15-5 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base, marking its 59th Falcon 9 launch of 2025. Liftoff is scheduled for 6:43 a.m. PDT, contributing to the increasing number of satellites on orbit.
The regular cadence of these launches reinforces SpaceX’s position as a leader in satellite deployment and highlights the growing need for high-speed internet access around the globe.
Read the full story: Spaceflight Now
Arabsat Seeks Telesat Lightspeed Capacity as Starlink Expands into Saudi Arabia
As SpaceX’s Starlink expands its operations into Saudi Arabia, Arabsat has signed a deal for broadband capacity from Telesat’s proposed LEO constellation. This move comes shortly after SpaceX received approval for LEO services to maritime and aviation customers in the region.
The growing competition for satellite capacity underscores the significance of strategic partnerships and advancements in service capabilities among satellite operators.
Read the full story: SpaceNews
SpaceX’s Next Private Astronaut Launch to ISS, Ax-4, Delayed to June 8
Axiom Space’s upcoming Ax-4 mission has been rescheduled to June 8 after a ten-day delay. This mission is part of the ongoing collaboration with SpaceX to support private astronaut expeditions to the International Space Station.
Despite the delay, interest in private spaceflight continues to grow, marking a shift in how humans engage with space exploration.
Read the full story: Space.com
📊 Starlink Status
- Total Launched: 8638
- Total On Orbit: 7500
- Total Working: 7478
Track Starlink satellites in real-time on our web app: Track Starlink
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