The satellites are intended to provide high-speed internet coverage in areas that are underserved by traditional methods.

Its part of a new wave of technologies that could help bridge the digital divide.

The remote areas its satellites will cover include parts of the Arctic that dont get high-speed internet.

Someone using a tablet computer in a vineyard.

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Theres a crucial need for remote areas to get better internet service.

“Unfortunately, many rural and remote communities have been unable to benefit from it.”

“This made it so that I could finally run my business efficiently.

Children in East Africa using a tablet computer.

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But as the number of satellites increases, there could be problems ahead, experts warn.

“A bad collision could render a satellite virtually unrepairable.”

“Additionally, in many cases, these satellites need to be replaced after only a few years.

The deorbiting process could end up being very costly for these carriers.”

Using Light to Connect

Satellites arent the only answer for remote internet.

The project could allow citizens in Brazzaville and Kinshasa to get faster and cheaper broadband.

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The light beam idea grew out ofProject Loon, a broadband project using high-altitude balloons.

Unfortunately, project Loon has been shut down.