Satellite Internet service Starlink launched a new global roaming service called "Starlink Roam" last Thursday, allowing users to access the Internet from anywhere in the world via satellite.
But how does Starlink Roam provide global satellite internet, how much does it cost, and can you actually access it?
First of all, what is Starlink Roaming?
Before delving into this new service from Starlink, let's understand when Starlink itself was launched. How do you provide internet service via satellite?
SpaceX - founded by Elon Musk to specialize in space exploration services - established an internal division called (Starlink) in 2015 after a series of experiments and experiments aimed at providing satellites in low Earth orbit. ; Starlink was able to launch its first test satellite in 2018, and the number of launched satellites reached 3,800 and is expected to reach 42,000 by 2027.
In May of last year, the company launched a service called (Starlink RV), which provides Internet connectivity in remote areas and targets travel and camping enthusiasts, as well as those who stay in remote areas for long periods of time.
Now Starlink has changed the name of this roaming service from (Starlink RV) to (Starlink Roam), but now Starlink antennas can connect to satellites almost anywhere on Earth.
However, this service still requires approval from regulatory authorities in different countries and is not available in other countries. You can check which countries are currently able to use this service via the Starlink Availability Map.
second; How do I get Starlink satellite internet service?
The Starlink satellite internet service relies on a series of devices known as the Starlink kit. It is a receiver dish that is mounted on top of a house - like the ones we use to receive television broadcasts - and a device that distributes the signal. It sends the wireless signal throughout the house - acts as a router - power supply and cable assembly.
The Starlink dish is self-guided and communicates quickly as long as there is a clear view of the sky. The company relies on laser technology to transmit data, so there must be a clear view between the antennas and the sky. Once the device is set up, you can connect to the Starlink network and use the Starlink app to manage your service.
Another advantage of the Starlink service is that it can communicate with large satellites flying in low Earth orbit; It is about 550 kilometers from the Earth's surface, so it can provide low latency.
third; How much does Starlink roaming cost?
The service costs $159 per month for regional use, $200 per month for global use, and a one-time hardware fee of $599 if you choose the portable antenna, or $2,500 for on-the-go use if you choose the dedicated antenna.
Customers can pause the service so they don't pay anything if they don't use it. No contract is required either, and if customers are not satisfied with the service, the hardware kit can be returned within 30 days for a full refund.
Anyone outside the United States may purchase a Starlink device and sign up for the service, but will be responsible for any customs duties and import taxes that may be required. You should also check the Starlink Availability Map to see if the service is available in your country.
fourth; How does Starlink Roaming work?
The Starlink Roam service relies on (laser links between Starslink) satellites that enter the service to transmit data - laser links between these satellites are also known as (space lasers) - because these links enable spacecraft to travel without data being transmitted without Local earth station, providing truly global coverage and incredibly fast satellite connections.
The benefit of replacing traditional radio waves with satellite communications using lasers that encode data into light pulses is similar to rolling out fiber optic cables instead of copper for the terrestrial Internet, which means faster speeds and lower latency.
Fifth ; What is the speed of the service?
Starlink said customers of the service will enjoy download speeds of 5 to 50 Mbps and upload speeds of 2 to 10 Mbps. This is quite a speed drop compared to the 50-250Mbps offered by the home use plans.
However, it's also important to note that the company's satellite constellation isn't complete yet, so the company says customers will experience short periods of poor connectivity or complete outages. However, I promise you, things will improve dramatically over time.
VI; What is the difference between regional use and global use of the service?
We already mentioned that service area usage (StarlinkRoam) is $159 per month and total usage is $200 per month. So what is the difference between them?
In addition to differences in fees, there are also differences in usage limits, as Global Usage Plans do not have travel restrictions that limit usage within the same continent as Regional Usage Plans. Therefore, the global usage plan allows you to access the service all over the world on almost every continent.
A final important difference between regional and global use is that mobile devices and a modern flat high-performance receiver platform cannot be used for global roaming, as only Starlink mobile devices cannot be purchased in regional roaming. plans.