Google in talks with Virgin Galactic over satellite launch technology

Google is in talks with with Virgin Galactic on a deal aimed at getting access to satellite-launch technology and an equity stake in Sir Richard Branson's $2-billion space tourism venture, Sky News reported.

It said in a report that the discussions with Virgin Galactic were part of Google's ambitious project to put hundreds of satellites in low-earth orbit in its attempt to extend internet access to billions of people.

The two companies had been negotiating for months and the talks were said to be at an advanced stage.

Two months after acquiring Titan Aerospace, which beams internet signals from high-altitude drones (See: Google acquires solar-powered drone maker Titan Aerospace). Google this week acquired Skybox Imaging, a company that uses small satellites to transmit high-resolution images from space (See:Google acquires satellite maker Skybox Imaging for $500 mn).