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The latest version of Starlink is equipped with lasers to do these hops. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starlink#V1.5_(operational) https://en.wikipedia.org/wik

• dotnet00 5y ago
  They're still a relatively small portion of the operational constellation, so while better than nothing, they aren't common enough to rely on for continuous service, thus the choice of Fiji for this temporary station. While this will likely not be the case within another year, what matters in relation to this is what they can do right now, not in another year. This shouldn't be taken as criticism of Starlink, but rather an example of the possibilities as the fully featured constellation starts to become ready. Eventually they wouldn't need to send over engineers to setup a base station, they'd just send over some dishes and adjust routing priorities.
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• monkeybutton 5y ago
  The source linked to by the wiki article talks about the first batch of laser link satellites being launched but doesn't really go into much depth about it. Does this mean they're wrapping up the testing phase? It would be cool to read more about the practical logistics done to make such a network work in orbit.
• deelowe 5y ago
  Does it work? I read the laser tech had issues.
• mlindner 5y ago
  https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1484424055071641602 https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1484424055071641602 Musk himself says there's not enough laser-capable satellites yet. This is why they're setting up a ground station in Fiji (because it has internet), to act as the relay.