Orbital Internet Infrastructures: Assessing the Global Impact of Satellite Mega-Constellations on Connectivity, Spectrum Governance, and Space Sustainability

Abstract: The rapid deployment of satellite mega-constellations by entities such as SpaceX, OneWeb, and Amazon has ushered in a new era of global internet infrastructure, with the potential to bridge longstanding digital divides. This research critically investigates the multifaceted global impact of these orbital networks, focusing on three primary domains: internet connectivity, spectrum governance, and space sustainability. A data-driven methodology is employed, incorporating regression models, predictive analytics, and comparative performance metrics (e.g., RMSE, nDCG) to analyze satellite density, spectrum efficiency, and orbital debris proliferation across various regions. Empirical findings reveal that satellite mega-constellations significantly enhance internet accessibility in underserved and remote areas, contributing to socio-economic inclusion. However, the study also identifies severe challenges, including inequitable spectrum allocation practices and the escalating risk of orbital congestion due to unmanaged debris growth. By integrating mathematical modeling with global policy assessments, this research provides a comprehensive framework to evaluate and guide sustainable development in the satellite internet sector. The implications are profound for technology governance, space policy, and future digital infrastructure planning. The study advocates for coordinated international regulation, spectrum-sharing frameworks, and proactive debris mitigation strategies to ensure that orbital internet infrastructure supports equitable and sustainable global advancement. Keywords: satellite mega-constellations, orbital internet, global connectivity, space sustainability, spectrum governance, low Earth orbit, internet access, predictive analytics, space policy, digital divide