Reliable Satellite Internet - Reimagined

Elon Musk’s Starlink, a satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX, has been catching headlines recently. Although many of these articles focus on the economic and political issues with the company, it's important to take a look at how Starlink has breathed new life into satellite technology, a field that could solve a lot of problems.

Photo by Starlink of a Starlink Satellite.

Around since 1996, satellite internet, while cool in theory, never really took off due to high prices (compared to antenna based Internet) as well as slower speeds given the distance and data limitations. However Starlink’s approach helps to address some of these issues. Instead of using a couple of large satellites, Starlite uses thousands of small ones that are much closer to the Earth’s surface, cutting latency levels and improving speed. Additionally, the satellites are independent of Earth based stations because they use laser communication elements to transmit signals between each other.

Again, though Starlink has come under fire recently for political reasons, the technology simply put is useful and is applicable regardless of the company. Satellites can provide global coverage in regions where antenna based Internet doesn’t reach. Satellites will also cut the need for power lines, which have been known to disturb environments and wildlife.

However, let's take a look at a more niche, yet critical situation: natural disasters like Hurricane Ian. Around 2.8 million people lost access to the Internet when power lines were destroyed in the storm, leaving people stranded and in danger. Satellite internet has the capability to withstand inclement weather and can provide reliable internet access when terrestrial networks fail, an asset that could save lives and resources. And although critics will add that satellite internet speeds tend to decrease due to turbulent weather, it is unlikely that access will be completely lost which is a common occurrence with ground based internet.

Additionally, it is important to look past the physical benefits. We live in a world that is so reliant on the Internet, especially law enforcement and the government. However when the power goes out and authoritative bodies lose their network, society becomes vulnerable. When storms like Ian occur, there tends to be a rise in crime and a decrease in security. But with an Internet source that society can rely on, people can feel safe both physically and emotionally during times of crisis.