Viasat is moving to rival Starlink with the launch of a satellite mobile service that could change how more people connect to the internet. The company has partnered with the European Space Agency (ESA) to explore the creation of a new satellite constellation designed to provide direct-to-device connectivity. This satellite internet system aims to bypass traditional cell towers and cover smartphones and IoT devices worldwide. This step signals a potential shake-up in the satellite and mobile connectivity market, challenging SpaceX’s Starlink.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
Viasat-ESA Collaboration
Viasat, a U.S.-based satellite communications company, seeks to expand its presence in the satellite-to-device connectivity space. On Tuesday, Viasat announced a deal with the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop a low-Earth orbiting satellite constellation that would deliver connectivity directly to mobile phones, eliminating the need for ground infrastructure like cell towers.
Viasat CEO Mark Dankberg shared that the company is bringing together several European partners to work on this project. This satellite system could have a global reach, starting with Europe and expanding globally. Viasat’s entry into the market further intensifies the competition with Starlink, which already provides satellite-based internet connectivity through a network of low-Earth orbit satellites.
SpaceX’s Current Dominance
SpaceX has the edge in the satellite-to-device market with its Starlink system. SpaceX has teamed up with AST SpaceMobile to offer direct-to-device connectivity, initially with T-Mobile users in the U.S. T-Mobile’s beta tests for Starlink satellite service allow users to send SMS messages even in cellular dead zones. Eventually, this service will expand to voice calling and internet downloads, depending on regulatory approvals and satellite expansion.
Viasat’s Testing Success and Future Plans
Viasat isn’t just entering the race with plans; it’s already testing its technology. Last year, it successfully conducted tests in the UAE, India, and Saudi Arabia with its partner Skylo, enabling satellite connectivity for Verizon and Google Pixel smartphones. Most recently, Viasat demonstrated satellite-enabled two-way messaging at the Abu Dhabi Space Debate, using Android smartphones connected to non-terrestrial networks.
While Viasat has historically focused on geostationary satellites and partner-funded satellite constellations, this partnership with ESA marks a bold shift. The company is now looking to expand its capabilities through its own low-Earth orbiting satellites, competing directly with Starlink.
European Collaboration and Growing Competition
This move is particularly significant in Europe, where ESA is already involved in multiple space initiatives. One notable project is IRIS², a satellite internet system that European satellite operators SES, Eutelsat, and Hispasat are developing for $11 billion. This is aimed at providing high-speed internet access without relying on Starlink.
Viasat’s partnership with ESA could help it become a major player in the European satellite-to-mobile network, allowing more collaboration with European and Canadian operators. The growing interest in satellite connectivity solutions further emphasizes the increasing demand for reliable, global internet services.
What’s Next for Viasat?
Viasat’s upcoming satellite constellation will be part of a broader movement toward connecting devices without traditional infrastructure. As satellite technology becomes more capable of delivering high-speed services to remote and underserved areas, companies like Viasat are positioning themselves as the future of mobile connectivity.
With Starlink already proving the viability of satellite internet services and other players like SpaceX and T-Mobile pushing for widespread adoption, Viasat must keep up with expanding satellite networks to stay competitive. Whether it can surpass Starlink in market share remains to be seen, but Viasat’s expansion into mobile connectivity is one to watch.
TF Summary: What’s Next
As Viasat strides toward deploying its satellite constellation, the company is trying to become a key competitor in the satellite-to-mobile market. Partnering with ESA could prove crucial in expanding the company’s reach and capabilities. With Starlink already establishing a foothold, the battle for global satellite internet will likely intensify. Both companies face the challenge of navigating regulatory hurdles and technological limitations as they seek to expand mobile connectivity. Viasat’s success or failure in this endeavor will significantly impact the future of satellite internet services.
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