Iran Protests: Starlink Satellites Challenge Internet Blackout

Protesters in Iran are using Starlink satellite internet terminals to communicate and share information. This technology helps them bypass the government's widespread internet shutdowns. Starlink is a service operated by Elon Musk's company, SpaceX. It uses a network of thousands of small satellites in low Earth orbit to provide internet access. Users only need a small satellite dish. This method is difficult for any single country to block completely. However, Iranian authorities have reportedly disrupted the service in some local areas. The U.S. government has supported Starlink's role in Iran. Initially funded by SpaceX, the U.S. Department of Defense later took over payments for the service there. Former President Donald Trump has suggested Washington could deploy a similar strategy again. The use of Starlink highlights how satellite technology is becoming a tool for digital access in regions with heavy censorship.