AI Term of the Moment
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Definition: Starlink
The largest satellite-based Internet service. Developed by SpaceX and announced in 2015, a nationwide rollout began in 2021. Today, Starlink has more than ten thousand satellites in orbit and more than 12 million subscribers from over 150 countries. In January 2026, FCC approval was given for 7,500 more satellites. Going beyond stationary residences, Starlink also serves ships and aircraft. For $55 to $130 per month, including antenna and Wi-Fi router, downlink speeds range from 100 to 400 Mbps.
Starlink Direct to Cell
Starlink satellites have cellular antennas that reach common smartphones mostly outdoors. To reach the world, phone signals are funneled via T-Mobile towers to the satellites, and AT&T and Verizon connect to T-Mobile. However, Starlink hopes to be a full-fledged carrier in the future, In 2026, it purchased spectrum in the 800 MHz range that can penetrate buildings. 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 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
Starlink Direct to Cell
Starlink satellites have cellular antennas that reach common smartphones mostly outdoors. To reach the world, phone signals are funneled via T-Mobile towers to the satellites, and AT&T and Verizon connect to T-Mobile. However, Starlink hopes to be a full-fledged carrier in the future, In 2026, it purchased spectrum in the 800 MHz range that can penetrate buildings. 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 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.
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.)