Startup EON bets on space lasers to link data centers, aiming for 2.4 Tbps links

Startup Endeavor Optical Networks (EON) emerged from stealth on October 13, 2025, with $10.75 million in seed funding to build a satellite network using lasers to transmit data between data centers, targeting speeds of 2.4 terabits per second (Tbps).

Why space lasers for data centers?

As hyperscalers expand data centers globally, they rely on a fragile network of undersea fiber-optic cables that are costly and difficult to repair. Radio transmissions lack the bandwidth to handle data at speeds comparable to fiber, which typically operates at 200 Tbps or more. EON aims to fill this gap with laser-based satellite links that can carry data at high throughput, potentially offering an alternative for underserved or expensive routes.

EON’s technology and roadmap

EON plans to deploy about 20 satellites, each providing dedicated intercontinental links. The company will use ground stations strategically placed to serve local data centers and CDNs, with redundancy and weather data to ensure reliability. The startup’s initial focus is on routes like France to Australia or Africa to South America, where existing infrastructure is limited. EON’s first demo satellite is targeted for launch around the end of 2027, aiming to achieve at least 800 Gbps and possibly 1 Tbps downlink throughput.

Technical challenges and team expertise

One major challenge is atmospheric distortion of laser signals, especially through clouds. EON is developing proprietary technology to mitigate this. The team includes Charlie Horowitz (CEO), Tyler Presser (CTO), and veterans from Google and Amazon’s LEO satellite projects. They plan to use off-the-shelf satellite buses from Apex Space, where Horowitz previously worked.

Market context and competition

EON faces competition from Blue Origin’s TeraWave project, which plans a 5,048-satellite network with speeds up to 6 Tbps, but that is more ambitious and will take longer. EON’s smaller fleet may be quicker to deploy, but industry analysts like Caleb Henry of Quilty Space caution that satellite internet must meet high standards for quality and redundancy, which may take longer than entrepreneurs suggest.

Why it matters

Data center traffic is growing rapidly, and current infrastructure may not keep pace. EON’s approach could offer a more resilient and flexible alternative to undersea cables, particularly for routes that are expensive or lack connectivity. The company is in talks with hyperscalers and AI labs, which are the largest data movers, and plans to sell dedicated capacity for full control over data transit.

Conclusion

EON is betting that space-based laser links can become a practical solution for data center connectivity, addressing a growing problem. With seed funding and a clear roadmap, the startup aims to demonstrate the technology by 2027. Success will depend on overcoming technical hurdles and proving reliability to demanding enterprise customers.

FAQs

Q1: What is EON’s primary business?
EON plans to build a network of satellites equipped with lasers to provide high-speed data links between data centers, targeting throughput of 2.4 Tbps.

Q2: When will EON launch its first satellite?
EON aims to launch a demo satellite around the end of 2027, with the goal of achieving the highest optical downlink throughput yet seen.

Q3: How does EON differ from other satellite internet providers?
EON focuses on dedicated, high-capacity links for data centers, rather than consumer broadband, and aims to serve underserved or expensive routes.