Chicago, IL – Starlink users across the United States experienced widespread connectivity issues Thursday, with nearly 60,000 outage reports submitted within hours, according to Downdetector.
The disruptions peaked around 2:08 p.m. CT, when Downdetector reported over 58,600 user-submitted complaints, a dramatic spike from the platform’s baseline of just four reports. The sudden surge caused a nationwide stir, with affected users reporting complete service blackouts and unstable internet access.
According to Downdetector, 57% of complaints were related to general internet service, while 42% cited a total blackout. Television service appeared unaffected.
Screenshots from the Starlink mobile app show that many users encountered messages such as “Starlink unplugged or rebooting” and “Service outage,” with some reports indicating that the system could not reach user terminals. One screen displayed the notice: “Your area is currently experiencing a service outage. Our team is investigating and will resolve the issue as soon as possible.”
SpaceX, the parent company of Starlink, has not yet issued a formal statement explaining the cause of the outage. As of late Thursday afternoon, service appeared to be gradually returning to some areas, though users continued to report intermittent connectivity.
Starlink, a satellite internet service developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has become a crucial tool for rural and remote communities with limited access to traditional broadband infrastructure. Thursday’s disruption highlights the system’s growing importance — and the risks associated with large-scale reliance on a single provider for internet connectivity.
Technicians and Starlink’s support team are currently monitoring the situation. Affected users are advised to check the Starlink app for updates and ensure their devices are properly connected.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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