What is Starlink?
As we hear more and more about “Starlink,” Elon Musk’s low orbit satellite grid providing high speed internet across the globe, it’s growing increasingly similar to Terminator’s SkyNet. However, the billionaire’s venture is providing a very useful service for many people internationally. With over 700 satellites in low orbit, about 1,200 miles up, the range is larger and more customizable to fit the needs of its users. What do these satellites offer? Well Starlink users are connected to a high speed and low latency broadband network. Now most of you have heard “high speed internet” from all the Verizon and AT&T commercials, but what does it actually mean? Well honestly, it's never really been given an exact number, anything better than dial-up internet is technically high-speed. Low latency refers to the network's ability to process large files or high volumes of data very quickly. The “low” refers to the minimal delay when you send or receive. One of the most notable differences, and the part that makes it so interesting, is its satellite connection. Instead of using towers like most other providers, the grid of satellites accomplishes the same goal. However, the equipment required is different than usual. Most internet providers install a modem that connects to a network line that runs underground. Connecting your modem to the provided internet, Starlink takes its back to the ol’ satellite TV days. The starter kit comes with a tripod and the “Starlink” that has to have a clear view of the sky, almost exactly like the satellite dishes that used to provide television. This time, however, the dish is being brought on the internet instead of 500 TV channels. Now all of these shifts away from the standard way that the internet is provided is what gives Starlink its popularity, is also what gives it its usefulness. Yes the satellite system is cool, and the dish looks futuristic, but it allows for people to gain access to proper internet. In heavily populated areas the replacement and upgrading of network cables is frequent. It is still slow and we have to wait, but compared to other areas it is pretty fast. In more rural areas the upkeep on network cables is little to none, so some users are dealing with either slow and unreliable internet, or none at all. Starlink changes that. Without the need for physical cables these people can access a world that has become increasingly technologically dependent. Although the system is only in beta testing, those involved have expressed their gratitude and appreciation for what Starlink provides. This also goes for what it doesn’t provide: heavy light emission. With Musk’s love for the final frontier it’s not surprising that he cares about light pollution. With the satellites being in low orbit, and the large amount of satellites present, the obstruction of astronomy was a large concern. Starlink has implemented changes to make their presence almost unknown to those who wish to look up at the night sky and bask in the beauty that is our solar system. Like shifting solar panels to ensure the light isn’t caught so the satellite isn’t illuminated and “DarkSat” which is darkening of antenna and other apparatus on the satellite to reduce its visual impact. SpaceX worked closely with astronomers to ensure that this venture didn’t hinder or impact any operations, as well as to ensure that it doesn’t limit any in the future.