An estimated 50,000 clandestine Starlink terminals are currently providing internet access to Iranians, circumventing a government-imposed internet shutdown that began on January 8th. The satellite-based internet service, operated by SpaceX, has become a crucial communication lifeline for a nation of over 90 million people, according to a report by Future Perfect.

The Iranian government's internet blackout followed widespread anti-government protests that erupted in late December, fueled by economic hardship and demands for an end to the rule of Ali Khamenei. Reports from the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency indicate that over 18,000 protesters have been arrested, and estimates suggest that at least 2,600 deaths have occurred during the crackdowns. Some reports place the death toll much higher, exceeding 20,000.

Starlink utilizes a constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide broadband internet service. Unlike traditional geostationary satellites, LEO satellites orbit closer to Earth, resulting in lower latency and faster speeds. The Starlink terminals, which consist of a small satellite dish and a Wi-Fi router, can be easily concealed, making them difficult for authorities to detect.

Shayna Korol, a Future Perfect fellow, noted that the Starlink network offers a rare glimpse into the ongoing conflict within Iran. "Its difficult to know exactly what is happening in Iran since the government shut down the internet," she wrote. "Satellites are our only insight into the ongoing conflict and worth protecting."

The use of Starlink in Iran highlights the growing role of satellite internet in circumventing government censorship and providing access to information in politically unstable regions. However, the deployment of these terminals is not without risk. The Iranian government has reportedly been actively searching for and confiscating Starlink terminals, and users face potential arrest and prosecution.

The availability of Starlink in Iran also raises complex questions about international relations and the role of private companies in geopolitical conflicts. While SpaceX has not officially commented on the specific situation in Iran, the company has previously stated its commitment to providing internet access to people around the world, regardless of government restrictions. The Iranian rial is currently the least valuable currency in the world. The situation remains fluid, and the long-term impact of Starlink on the flow of information within Iran remains to be seen.