Definition: Starlink

A satellite-based Internet service from the SpaceX aerospace company. Announced in 2015, a nationwide rollout began in October 2021. Today, Starlink has nearly 10,000 satellites in orbit and more than nine million subscribers. In January 2026, FCC approval was given for 7,500 more satellites. Going beyond stationary residences, Starlink serves moving vehicles, ships and aircraft.

Downlink speed ranges from 25 to more than 200 Mbps. Fees in most locations are $120 per month with upfront starting at $599 for the antenna and Wi-Fi router.

Starlink Cellular
Starlink's Direct to Cell service for voice, data and Internet of Things (IoT) transmission launched in 2024. T-Mobile was first to offer the cellular capability, and Verizon and AT&T connect to Starlink via T-Mobile's service. See satellite Internet and LEO.

Getting Ready for Mars
SpaceX founder Elon Musk has repeatedly stated that people must inhabit Mars to keep civilization going after earth is destroyed either by cosmic events or nuclear conflict. SpaceX is planning to provide travel to the planet, and Starlink is expected to provide Internet service in Martian orbit. Mars to Earth communications is also planned. Be the first on your block to obtain Martian citizenship! See SpaceX.

Starlink's Real-Time Laser Backbone

Some 9,000 lasers beam Internet traffic between satellites and provide a mesh network that transmits more than 40 petabyes of daily data. Over a quarter million laser connections are formed every day in real time. (Image courtesy of SpaceX.)