SpaceX’s Starlink relies heavily on rare earth elements (REEs) like dysprosium, terbium, and samarium for the permanent magnets in its phased-array antennas, electric thrusters, and high-frequency communications. China controls ~90% of global magnet production & REE separation capacity
🚨 How China Could Force SpaceX’s Hand
📉 Constellation Collapse Clock Is Ticking
Without new satellites, Starlink begins to deorbit itself naturally. Most satellites last 5–6 years. With no replacements, service begins failing by 2030, and the entire constellation could go dark by 2035.
🧲 No Magnets, No Satellites
Starlink’s phased-array antennas, Hall-effect thrusters, and E-band transceivers require NdFeB magnets that depend on rare earths China now controls.
🌏 China’s “Made in China” Playbook
China could demand onshore manufacturing, as it did with Tesla’s Gigafactory. By offering “magnet access” in exchange for satellite assembly in China, turning Starlink into a Made-in-China product.
🎯 Strategic Leverage
Starlink isn’t just broadband it’s become a geopolitical asset, supporting Ukraine’s military and backed by U.S. DoD contracts. China views Starlink as a dual-use threat, and forcing production relocation helps neutralize its control while boosting China’s satellite know-how.
Final Word
If China tightens the screws on rare earth exports, Elon Musk may face a choice:
Build Starlink satellites in China or watch his constellation burn up in the atmosphere.
