Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Jun 29
Starlink Offers Venezuela Free Internet Through July 25 After 7.5 and 7.2 Quakes
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Jun 29

Starlink Offers Venezuela Free Internet Through July 25 After 7.5 and 7.2 Quakes

3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Jun 29

Summary

  • Starlink said Venezuelan users will get free satellite internet through July 25 after twin earthquakes on June 24 killed more than 1,400 people and crippled communications.
  • New and existing customers are eligible, but new users still must buy a receiver kit from one of three approved vendors before requesting the free service.
  • SpaceX said active customers in impacted areas will receive automatic account credits, canceled users can reactivate with credits, and terminals are being deployed to the hardest-hit zones.
  • Starlink now serves more than 7 million users in 150 countries via over 10,700 low-Earth-orbit satellites, making it a recurring emergency communications tool after disasters and during conflicts.

Insights

As nations build a 'Great Firewall' in space, can satellite internet truly remain a tool for global freedom?
When a private company controls crisis communications, who ensures this power is used for good?