I understand a lot more about this than you’re assuming.
I’ve seen this Linus video, plus I’ve seen projects like these work and have a good grasp on the cost. The Linus video can’t explain any of that, And he’s pretty clueless in general.
There’s a reason google and other companies use wireless and cell for this exact reason. Building ands maintenance is cheaper than satellites.
Your estimates assume totally new infrastructure, but that’s not the case for most rural communities. They have existing infrastructure that can be upgraded. You’re also wrongly assuming they’re going to put up towers across this distance. They would only put them where needed.
More importantly this is in comparison to satellites, which are even more expensive and this particular low orbit has a short lifespan.
It’s not a solution for the cabin in the top of Mount Everest or the middle of the ocean, but as i said in my original reply they are best for the vast majority of people.
There is a need for satellite communication comms, but we have it already today. I’m just not convinced this particular project is worth the cost.
Again most importantly, there’s not a ton of evidence that people living in remote areas want broadband.