What's Happening?
Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, has announced plans to launch a new satellite communications network named TeraWave. This network will consist of 5,408 satellites and is set to begin deployment in the fourth quarter of 2027. The satellites will operate in both low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), utilizing laser communication systems to provide high-throughput connectivity. TeraWave is designed to serve enterprise, data center, and government users, offering data speeds of up to 6 terabits per second. This initiative positions Blue Origin to compete with Elon Musk's Starlink, which currently leads the satellite internet market. The company aims to leverage vertical integration, a strategy also used by SpaceX, to reduce deployment costs
by using its New Glenn heavy launch vehicle.
Why It's Important?
The launch of TeraWave represents a significant move in the satellite internet market, challenging the dominance of Starlink. By targeting enterprise and government sectors, Blue Origin is focusing on a different customer base than Starlink, which primarily serves individual consumers. This could lead to increased competition in the satellite internet industry, potentially driving innovation and reducing costs. The high data speeds and global coverage promised by TeraWave could benefit industries such as aviation, defense, and manufacturing, which require reliable and high-capacity connectivity. Additionally, Blue Origin's vertical integration strategy could set a new standard for cost efficiency in satellite deployment.
What's Next?
Blue Origin plans to increase its launch cadence in 2026, following the successful launch and recovery of its New Glenn vehicle's booster stage. The company has filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to operate its satellite network, which includes 5,280 satellites in LEO and 128 in MEO. As the deployment of TeraWave progresses, Blue Origin will likely continue to refine its technology and expand its customer base. The competition with Starlink may also prompt further advancements in satellite technology and service offerings, potentially reshaping the landscape of global internet connectivity.
