[amorphous]

IMHO, tracking an additional 2000 objects, especially objects which can themselves autonomously avoid collision by downloading NORAD's database of orbiting objects and taking evasive action, is well worth it when doing so allows for providing high-speed internet to most of the globe, including our own citizens in remote corners of the US and around the world.

Personally, I hate being tied to a cable or cell phone tower, but high-speed internet access is a must have in today's world. Corporate income is expected to increase 5 times from this venture alone.

That business model was busted by the globalstar and iridium follies 20 years ago.

This business model has put global communications in reach of the average US citizen - albeit somewhat limited and expensive now. It has saved thousands of lives, millions of dollars, and allows for tracking and communicating with with planes, boats, scientific research parties, devices, allows others to survive and thrive in very remote areas of our planet.

Just one family I follow of on a daily basis, who are living their dream:

http://www.forecast.predictwind.com/tracking/display/Zatara

[Magnum44]

This business model is still subsidized by the government to this day. Iridium would have folded over 15 years ago if not for the DOD contract. You can’t have it both ways. Is it commercial or is it tax payer funded?