The internet became one of the key drivers of social evolution. With modern technology, data speed increased dramatically, and signal latency has been reduced to a few milliseconds with the 5G network.
Today, fiber-optic connectivity can provide lightning speed and reliability in cities and residential neighborhoods. Nevertheless, 31% of the global population still isn't connected since they do not have 3g coverage and one reason for that is simply that a good, fast connection is not available. Companies like Starlink, OneWeb, and even Amazon have taken a step ahead to provide internet in these rural or low-connectivity areas through Satellite Internet Technology - basically, internet from space.
Satellite Internet has been around for more than 20 years but key trends have led to a new momentum for this service. Due to new satellite technology, providers are now able to increase both capacity and performance and, hence, deliver much faster Internet speeds. Also, the costs of producing and launching satellites is now a fraction, from $400 million to $1 million or less per satellite, enabling businesses to mass-produce and set this technology into motion.
How does Satellite Internet technology work?
Satellite Internet relies on the combination of a signal routed through a satellite in low or high-Earth orbit and a receiver dish that receives that signal. The receiver is typically placed in a spot where it has as unobstructed access to the sky as possible. You will then connect a modem to that satellite to translate the signal into a workable internet connection.
While electricity is needed, the satellites aren't dependent on cable wires, fiber, or phone lines. They are locked in geosynchronous orbit, which means they don’t move relative to the ground underneath them, enabling a permanent connection, and minimizing interruptions in service.
A game-changing technology that will disrupt many industries
Industries galore can invest in Satellite Internet. Education, health, or social projects in rural areas of developed and developing countries can take great advantage of it. Inflight Wi-Fi connectivity for commercial aviation and private jets is also one of the major areas for Satellite Internet to take advantage. Military forces are already using this technology in their operations in remote areas to connect weapon systems and command centres. Another potential game changer use for Satellite Internet is in the context of stock trading, as it can provide a reduced latency and boost the speed of trading at lower cost.
Satellite Internet can also be an essential tool for disaster management during earthquakes, fires, or eruptions as they destroy infrastructure. Starlink has, for instance, provided 50 VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminals) that reconnected some of the outlying inhabited islands to the internet pending the restoration of undersea cables that had been destroyed by a volcano.
Connectivity has been an integral part of our day-to-day lives, and Satellite Internet technology will further enhance these data needs in many areas. Have you thought about how your industry can benefit from it?
