SpaceX plans to build factory for Starlink hardware
No time right now?
SpaceX wants to build the hardware required for Starlink itself in its own factory and have started regular operations in over 25 countries by the end of the year.
A job ad tells us interesting news about the Starlink satellite internet from SpaceX. Apparently SpaceX is planning to build a factory in Austin, Texas. To do this, she is looking for one or more senior engineers.
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Starlink Factory: What We Know
SpaceX is looking for engineers for automation and control. They must have a wide range of skills, because they are supposed to design the automated production systems for the planned high-tech factory and also develop the necessary software.
SpaceX wants to build “millions of end devices” in the factory, namely the necessary satellite home systems and WLAN routers that customers need for network connection. The hardware is to be delivered directly from the production site to the end customer. SpaceX wants to have started regular operations in more than 25 countries by the end of 2021.
Starlink Factory: What We Don’t Know
Above all, it is unclear how many employees SpaceX is looking for with the advertised qualification. It is also unclear why only this one qualification is sought if a quick start is planned.
What we also don’t know is whether SpaceX wants to build a new factory or convert an existing property. In view of the ambitions, a conversion is likely to be the more likely alternative. Either way, a start of production this year will only be able to be achieved with difficulty if a suitable property is found that could be converted with a relatively manageable amount of effort.
At first glance, SpaceX is in no hurry, because the more than 10,000 Starlink users already have the necessary hardware. So far, Tesla has been sourcing the routers from Taiwan. The bowls are manufactured in a manufactory manner in Redmond, USA.
From the order confirmation: This will be sent to you – when the time comes. (Screenshot: t3n)
External production too expensive for regular operation
That’s expensive – Elon Musk is too expensive. The billionaire has complained about this several times. In any case, the costs should significantly exceed the sales price of around $ 500. In-house production with modern mass production would almost be seen as essential for economic success.
Starlink recently expanded the pre-order options to a large number of other countries. The corresponding hardware can also be ordered in Germany. In the first step, a deposit of 99 euros is due, which will be offset against the final delivery. We have also ordered a system and described the process here.
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