A Danish professor is urging Europe to join the race for the future of internet connectivity via satellites, citing security concerns related to the dominance of companies like Elon Musk’s Starlink. John Leif Jørgensen, a professor of aerospace technology, emphasizes the potential risks of relying on foreign-owned satellite networks for sensitive communications.

Jørgensen highlights that while space is vast, the most valuable orbital positions are those closest to Earth. Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites have secured these prime locations, raising concerns about access and control. Higher orbits are less desirable due to increased radiation, which necessitates more expensive and robust satellite construction, as well as greater transmission power.

The professor notes the alarmingly low level of public awareness regarding the implications of these satellite networks for European security. Currently, while satellites are widely used for weather prediction, climate monitoring, and air traffic control, Elon Musk’s Starlink is uniquely positioned to provide internet and telephone connections on a global scale. Jørgensen estimates that Starlink’s infrastructure includes approximately ten million antennas.

A key factor in Starlink’s rapid deployment is the Falcon 9 rocket, which significantly reduced the cost of sending satellites into space due to its reusable design. However, this technological advantage also presents a security challenge. Jørgensen explains that communications transmitted via Starlink satellites are likely to be intercepted by U.S. intelligence agencies like the CIA and NSA, even if the communication originates and terminates within Denmark.

Jørgensen expresses trust in the Danish government but voices concern about the potential misuse of data by other actors. He argues that Europe needs to develop its own satellite internet infrastructure to safeguard its data and maintain control over its communications.