— SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 15, 2021 This launch is the 28th mission to launch Starlink satellites, bringing the total number of Starlink satellites in orbit to over 1,600. Starlink is a network of satellites that will eventually provide global broadband internet access; a small number of users in some countries already use the service in beta. The beta service launched in October last year, with more than 10,000 users so far. Users purchase hardware consisting of an antenna and pay a monthly fee for access to the service. Most current beta users are likely to be tech enthusiasts who are interested in trying out cutting-edge technology. But in the future, the service could be used to provide internet access to remote or rural areas which have little or no broadband internet access. Starlink has partnered with a school district in Texas to test out a program to provide free internet access to families in the area, and has received federal funding to bring internet service to rural areas.