Starlink's new generation satellites have two goals

SpaceX is working on Starlink V4, the next generation of Starlink satellites. The company has not yet shared the detailed specifications of the new satellites. However, he explained two main areas of development: a more powerful energy system and a better cooling system.

Two main goals in Starlink V4

According to SpaceX, the main challenge is to fit a more powerful energy unit into the satellite. In addition, the heat produced must be discharged efficiently. As energy increases, heat also increases, so the two issues are interconnected.

So it's not just about making more power. It is also necessary to remove the heat generated by the generated power from the satellite. Because the thermal management of a device operating in space can directly limit its performance.

Growing needs of the network

This work is important for the future of the Starlink network. New satellites are required to operate at higher loads. The aim is to meet the increasing data speed and capacity needs expected from the network.

More power and better cooling are suggested as two key elements that will enable the satellite to operate under high load. On the other hand, the company did not explain what figures these targets correspond to. Therefore, it is not yet known how much difference V4 will make compared to existing satellites.

Starship V3 carried its satellites into orbit

On the other hand, Starship, launched tonight, successfully released a group of Starlink V3 satellites into orbit. While the V3 series is currently on its way, V4 work is also ongoing. Thus, the company continues to ship the current generation while preparing the next generation.

It has not yet been announced when Starlink V4 satellites will go into orbit for the first time. Technical parameters have not been shared either. Until a new announcement comes, the only concrete information we have is the work on the power system and cooling.