Key Takeaway
On March 5, 2025, SpaceX sought additional E-band spectrum in Italy to improve communications between its ground stations and satellites. The Italian government delayed a decision, pending a unified EU stance on spectrum allocation. Concerns about space debris from increasing satellites and its impact on astronomical observations have drawn criticism from scientists. Additionally, bandwidth limitations in populated areas affect service quality, highlighted by recent service degradation in Ukraine due to Russian interference. Starlink faces competition from Amazon’s Project Kuiper, OneWeb, Viasat, Hughes Network Systems, Telesat, SES SA, and traditional telecoms like Intelsat, which are exploring multi-orbit strategies.
On March 5, 2025, reports indicated that SpaceX is seeking access to additional E-band spectrum in Italy to improve communications between its ground stations and satellites.
However, the Italian government has postponed a decision, waiting for a unified position from the European Union on spectrum allocation.
Moreover, the rising number of satellites has raised concerns about space debris and potential collisions, while its effects on astronomical observations have drawn criticism from the scientific community.
In addition, bandwidth limitations in densely populated areas continue to be a concern, impacting service quality. Recent reports of service degradation in Ukraine due to Russian interference further underscore potential vulnerabilities.
It has been reported that Britain and France are also considering alternatives to Starlink.
Who are Starlink’s competitors?
Starlink is facing increasing competition in the satellite internet market from several significant players.
Amazon’s Project Kuiper plans to launch its first production satellites in early 2025, with intentions to deploy over 3,200 satellites by 2029.
OneWeb, now part of Eutelsat Group, is nearing completion of its LEO constellation and is forming partnerships with telecom providers to broaden its reach.
Viasat and Hughes Network Systems provide established alternatives, especially in rural areas, while Telesat and SES SA are developing their own LEO constellations. Traditional telecom giants like Intelsat are also investing in multi-orbit strategies.
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