Satellite internet is a type of internet connection that uses satellite technology to provide internet access to users. It works by transmitting data to and from a satellite that orbits the Earth. This data is then sent to a ground station, which connects to the internet backbone and allows users to access the internet.

The swift rise of internet satellites, forming mega constellations, and accumulating space junk are already starting to mess with astronomers’ research. The swarm of satellites functioning in low Earth orbit has more than doubled since 2019, when space-based internet initiatives really started to take off. That year, SpaceX and One Web launched their first batches of satellites with the goal of providing global internet coverage. Orbiting the planet at a closer range than other satellites is supposed to make those services faster, cutting down how far signals have to travel to and from Earth. The trade-off is that at such a close range, companies need a lot more satellites to cover the whole planet.[1]

Figure 1. Satellite internet

Figure 1 shows Satellite internet is particularly useful in areas where traditional wired or wireless internet services are not available. It can also be used for mobile applications, such as on boats or RVs. However, satellite internet can be slower than other types of internet connections due to the distance that data must travel from the satellite to the ground station and back again. It can also be affected by weather conditions, which can cause interruptions in service.

Here are some trending pieces of information related to satellite internet:

1. Increased demand due to COVID-19:With many people working and studying from home during the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a surge in demand for satellite internet services, particularly in rural areas where other types of internet access may not be available.
2. Expansion of satellite internet providers:In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of satellite internet providers, such as SpaceX's star link and Amazon's Project Kuiper. These providers are working on launching large constellations of satellites to provide high-speed internet access to even the most remote areas of the world.
3. Advances in technology:With the development of new technologies, such as low-earth orbit satellites and advanced antenna systems, satellite internet speeds and reliability are improving. This could make satellite internet a more attractive option for consumers who require high-speed internet access.
4. Regulatory changes:In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has made changes to its rules and regulations to promote the development of satellite internet services. This includes making more spectrum available for satellite internet use and streamlining the approval process for satellite launches.
5. Competition from other technologies:While satellite internet may be a viable option in rural or remote areas, other technologies such as 5G and fibber-optic internet are also expanding their reach. This could make satellite internet less attractive for consumers in urban or suburban areas who have access to these other options.

Despite these limitations, satellite internet can be a viable option for those who live in rural or remote areas where other internet services are not available. It can also be a backup option for those who need a reliable internet connection in case of a power outage or other emergency situation.

References:

1. https://www.theverge.com/2023/3/21/23649937/starlink-spacex-satellite-light-pollution-nature-astronomy

Cite this article:

Janani R (2023), Satellite Internet, AnaTechMaz, pp.297