Mark Zuckerberg has responded to the SpaceX prelaunch test explosion on Thursday that destroyed Facebook’s first satellite.
"As I’m here in Africa, I’m deeply disappointed to hear that SpaceX’s launch failure destroyed our satellite that would have provided connectivity to so many entrepreneurs and everyone else across the continent," Zuckerberg said on his Facebook page.
Facebook wanted to use the US $195 million satellite to beam free internet to areas without access, like sub-Saharan Africa.
The satellite was supposed to ride SpaceX’s Falcon 9 into orbit.
"Fortunately, we have developed other technologies like Aquila that will connect people as well," Zuckerberg said, referencing the company’s drone project that’s also designed to provide high speed internet.
"We remain committed to our mission of connecting everyone, and we will keep working until everyone has the opportunities this satellite would have provided."
This article was originally published by Business Insider.
More from Business Insider:
- Oil tanker rates are at their highest in at least 25 years thanks to strong fuel demand and Russia sanctions disrupting traditional trading routes
- Burger King mistakenly sent dozens of people, including some who have never ordered from the fast-food giant, blank receipts at midnight
- Kewsong Lee's decision to step down as Carlyle chief highlights the challenge private equity faces when transitioning from founders
- Mary Trump says her uncle is panicked by FBI raid and never believed the DOJ would take action
- Maro-a-Lago raid live updates: Trump likely in panic, wouldn't have expected raid, niece Mary says