By: Destiny Young
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation being developed by SpaceX, the private aerospace company founded by Elon Musk. The goal of Starlink is to provide high-speed, low-latency internet access to underserved and remote areas around the world.
Starlink is the world’s first and largest satellite constellation using a low Earth orbit to deliver broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls and more.
Leveraging advanced satellites and user hardware coupled with our deep experience with both spacecraft and on-orbit operations, Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency internet to users all over the world.
The Starlink constellation involves thousands of small satellites placed in low Earth orbit (LEO). These satellites communicate with ground stations and user terminals (dish receivers) to provide internet connectivity. The advantage of this system is that it can potentially deliver internet access to regions where traditional wired or cellular networks are impractical or unavailable.
Starlink aims to offer internet service with relatively high speeds and low latency, which is particularly important for applications like online gaming, video conferencing, and other real-time activities. The project’s ultimate vision is to create a global network that can provide widespread and reliable internet coverage.
HOW STARLINK WORKS
Most satellite internet services come from single geostationary satellites orbiting the planet at an altitude of 35,786 km. As a result, round-trip data transmission times between users and satellites, also known as latency, are high, making it difficult to support streaming, online gaming, video calling or chatting, or other activities. Other high data rates are almost impossible.
Starlink is a constellation of thousands of satellites orbiting a planet much closer to Earth, about 550 km, and covering the entire globe. Because the Starlink satellite is in low orbit, the latency is significantly lower – about 25 milliseconds compared to more than 600 milliseconds.
Nigeria is one of the first set of countries in Africa that Starlink internet convers.
Starlink Internet Speed
Starlink users typically experience download speeds between 25 and 220 Mbps, with a majority of users experiencing speeds over 100 Mbps. Upload speeds are typically between 5 and 20 Mbps.
HOW TO PURCHASE
Right in Nigeria, you can place an order for your Starlink internet kit in the comfort of your home. Just visit: https://www.starlink.com/
WHAT’S IN THE YOUR ORDER BOX
Your Starlink Kit comes pre-connected with everything you need to access the internet:
- Satellite Dish: This is a phased-array antenna designed to communicate with the Starlink satellites. It’s equipped with motors that allow it to move and adjust its position to track satellites as they pass overhead. The dish is relatively compact and user-friendly, designed for easy installation.
- Mounting Hardware: The kit includes a mounting tripod or stand to securely position the satellite dish outdoors. This ensures the dish has a clear line of sight to the sky and the passing satellites.
- Router/Modem: The user terminal provided in the kit includes a built-in router and modem. This terminal connects to the satellite dish and provides Wi-Fi connectivity to your devices. It manages the communication between your devices and the Starlink satellites.
- Power Supply and Cables: The kit includes the necessary cables to connect the components, along with a power supply to provide electricity to the satellite dish and user terminal.
- Setup Instructions: Detailed instructions are provided to guide you through the process of setting up the kit, including how to position the satellite dish for optimal connectivity.
- Mobile App: Starlink provides a mobile app that can help you during the setup process. The app can assist in determining the best placement for the satellite dish and provide real-time feedback on the signal strength.
SET UP
Your Starlink Kit includes a base, which is ideal for ground-level installation or a quick setup to test your connection. Since Starlink requires a clear view of the sky in order to connect with the satellite network, you need to use a permanent mount above ground level. Additional mounts and accessories are available on the Starlink Shop once you have placed your order.
To connect, download the Starlink App, place your Starlink where it has a clear view of the sky and plug it in.
Download the Starlink app: iOS Link | Android Link
