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Satellite internet: Who controls the sky?

07:36

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Leonore Busch
June 5, 2026

Internet via satellite is a booming industry, but services are mainly offered by US companies. Does the rest of the world really want to rely on them?

Satellite internet connections, like those offered by Starlink, offer vital connectivity for remote areas but raise concerns over private control of critical infrastructure.

With SpaceX dominating launches and operating most satellites, Elon Musk holds unprecedented influence — even affecting warfare, as seen in Ukraine.

Experts have warned about reliability, accountability and dependence on a single provider. Europe is developing alternatives, but for now remains reliant, highlighting risks of concentrated power in an unregulated space economy.

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