Space-Age WiFi: How Starlink, HughesNet, and Viasat Are Beaming Broadband from Space
Starlink uses a low Earth orbit constellation with about 7,600 satellites in orbit as of mid-2025 (aiming for 12,000+), delivering 50–250 Mbps downloads with 20–50 ms latency and no hard data caps on standard plans (heavy users may be throttled during congestion). HughesNet operates GEO satellites (EchoStar Jupiter fleet, including Jupiter 3) offering up to 50–100 Mbps on newer plans, around 600 ms latency, soft data caps with throttling, and pricing roughly $50–$100 per month with equipment around $300 or a $15/month lease; Fusion LTE hybrid is available. Viasat uses ViaSat-2/3 GEO satellites to provide 100–150 Mbps and, on newer
