SpaceX is looking to bring high-speed internet to the Moon. During the Starship Flight Test 12 livestream on May 21, the company revealed early plans to build a network of satellites orbiting the Moon, using laser technology to provide consistent connectivity across the lunar surface.
This project aims to support NASA’s upcoming Artemis missions, which are scheduled to begin in 2027. By using laser-linked relays, the system is designed to provide gigabit speeds that far exceed the performance of current radio frequency communication systems.
To make this possible, SpaceX is developing a hardware solution called “Roam – Interplanetary.” This rugged terminal would allow rovers, lunar habitats, and crews to maintain reliable connections, enabling real-time video streaming, advanced navigation, and large data transfers while on the Moon.
By building on the laser technology currently used for Starlink in Earth’s orbit, SpaceX intends to eliminate the coverage gaps and blackouts that have historically hampered deep-space communications.
This is wild. Imagine being on the moon and being able to FaceTime and watch Netflix and game. That might lower productivity for NASA, right? (kidding).
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