Sharp develops multi-orbit antenna as Starlink faces consumer legal action

Sharp is developing a compact, universal satellite terminal designed to communicate across multiple networks and orbits, including geostationary (GEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), and low Earth orbit (LEO). Working alongside Japan Radio and SKY Perfect JSAT, the project aims to allow users to switch between providers and orbits, which could benefit critical infrastructure, military applications, and disaster relief areas. However, compatibility with existing providers like SpaceX’s Starlink remains uncertain due to proprietary encryption and authentication methods.

In a separate development regarding Starlink, the company has issued a cease-and-desist declaration following legal action by the Verbraucherzentrale Niedersachsen in Germany. The consumer protection agency challenged Starlink for unauthorized price increases and automatic upgrades to more expensive service tiers without customer consent. Starlink has committed to stopping these practices and has indicated that affected customers may be able to claim refunds for overcharged amounts.