[bitcoindev] Re: Proposal for Decentralized Satellite-Based Bitcoin Nodes

[Antoine Riard <antoine.riard@gmail.com>]

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Hi BitMan,

Can check the original thread by jgarzik, before LEO constellations were 
cool:

https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=334701.0

This is fascinating challenge to tackle on, a strong degree in theoretical 
physics
or equivalent can only be a good start imho. 

Best,
Antoine
OTS hash: f941581f7565cd2d3ef3f1a8e15701fddc81c5f0c98f1bd7dc2911e46340c837
Le dimanche 6 juillet 2025 à 16:36:19 UTC+1, BitMan a écrit :

> Hello,
>
> This is my first message to the Bitcoin Development Mailing List.
>
> Straight to the point: you might be familiar with the Blockstream 
> Satellite system, which broadcasts the Bitcoin blockchain globally. 
> Blockstream uses ground stations that receive a version of the blockchain 
> from Blockstream's infrastructure. Users can passively receive this data 
> but cannot broadcast transactions or contribute updates to the blockchain 
> being transmitted.
>
> My concern is the lack of decentralization and the reliance on a single 
> company. I’m only 16 and still learning, but I’m passionate about improving 
> Bitcoin. I don’t fully understand how satellites work yet — but inspired by 
> Elon Musk’s Starlink approach, I believe it's worth exploring the idea of a 
> fully open-source, community-driven satellite communication system.
>
> This system could allow users not only to receive but also to broadcast 
> transactions and synchronize blocks directly to and from full nodes in 
> space. That way, Bitcoin could truly function off-grid and without 
> dependency on centralized ISPs or infrastructure. It would make Bitcoin 
> more resilient, censorship-resistant, and globally accessible.
>
> Of course, such a project would be very expensive and technically complex. 
> But perhaps it could be made possible through crowdfunding or support from 
> individuals passionate about decentralization and global freedom.
>
> My dream is to see Bitcoin working *almost* offline — powered by minimal 
> energy, generated through a small solar panel and paired with a satellite 
> dish. A full node that can send and receive data or even a singular device 
> exploring the blockchain or broadcasting a transaction, independent of 
> centralized networks — truly decentralized and powered by the people.
>
> Thanks a lot for reading my message :)
>
> Yours,
> [Username not set yet :)]
>

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