SpaceX is proposing a Marslink satellite constellation to NASA, aiming to provide communication for future missions to Mars.

The plan is based on SpaceX’s successful Starlink design, with multiple satellites in Mars’ orbit to support both ground and orbital assets.

This follows SpaceX’s recent launch of its 7,000th Starlink satellite, part of a larger plan for a 42,000-satellite network.

Other companies, including Blue Origin and Lockheed Martin, also pitched communication solutions for Mars, such as Blue Origin’s Blue Ring orbital tug and Lockheed’s MAVEN spacecraft, Gizmodo has reported.

NASA plans to rely on commercial partners for infrastructure to support long-term human missions to Mars, alongside its own efforts in developing laser-based communications.

Written by B.C. Begley