Amateur satellite tracker Scott Tilley accidentally discovered a subgroup of classified SpaceX military satellites, known as Starshield, transmitting data on an unusual radio frequency.
While monitoring satellites as a hobby, Tilley noticed signals in the 2025–2110 MHz band, typically reserved and usually quiet. “It was just a misclick on the keyboard… I hit the record button and let it capture for a few minutes,” he explained.
Upon analyzing the signals and comparing them with amateur satellite tracking databases, Tilley identified 170 Starshield satellites sending data on this uncommon frequency. Starshield, SpaceX’s classified constellation, is mainly used by the U.S. military for Earth observation and communications, currently comprising over 200 satellites.
This frequency band is normally quiet because it is allocated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for satellite communications, usually in short bursts. Using it for continuous data transmission could potentially interfere with nearby commercial, scientific, or military satellites, causing them not to respond to commands.
Tilley noted that there have been no reports of disruption, and he has publicly shared his findings on Zenodo.org to raise awareness among satellite operators. “SpaceX is smart… they will probably issue an apology later,” he added.
