What is NASA's Deep Space Network?

The Deep Space Network is NASA's international array of large radio antennas used for interplanetary spacecraft communication.

What is SpaceX Starshield used for?

Starshield is a satellite network designed primarily for national security customers, offering secure communications and data services.

Why is NASA testing SpaceX Starshield?

NASA is testing Starshield to enhance the resilience and security of its Deep Space Network by providing redundant communication links.

Home / Technology / NASA Taps SpaceX Starshield for Deep Space Network

NASA Taps SpaceX Starshield for Deep Space Network

16 Dec, 2025

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Summary

NASA plans a six-month pilot program using SpaceX Starshield.
The network will enhance redundancy and security for Deep Space Network.
Seven Starshield terminals will be deployed globally for NASA.

NASA Taps SpaceX Starshield for Deep Space Network

NASA intends to award SpaceX a sole-source contract to utilize its Starshield satellite network for supporting the Deep Space Network (DSN). This initiative is part of a six-month pilot program by NASA's Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program to bolster the DSN's communication capabilities.

The pilot program will deploy seven Starshield terminals across the three DSN sites located in Australia, California, and Spain. These terminals will provide secure, government-only encrypted data services, with eight data subscriptions each offering five terabytes per month, augmenting existing terrestrial fiber links.

Starshield, an offshoot of SpaceX's Starlink, is designed for national security customers, emphasizing high-assurance cryptographic capabilities for secure data processing. NASA's selection highlights the need for enhanced data integrity and encryption, adhering to federal standards and government data protection requirements for its critical space communications infrastructure.