All you need to know about satellite internet

What is Satellite Internet?

This technology shoots the Internet down from a satellite orbiting the Earth. Jio, Bharti Airtel Ltd’s OneWeb and billionaire Elon Musk’s Starlink want to send thousands of these satellites into orbit. OneWeb plans to launch 648 satellites, while Musk’s Starlink has permission to launch more than 4,000 satellites. So far, OneWeb has launched over 400 satellites, while Starlink has launched over 2,000 satellites. SES already operates 70 satellites. It is worth noting that Starlink plans to launch 42,000 satellites in the coming decade. JIO’s journey has just started.

Which satellites will Jio use?

Jio’s joint venture will use Geostationary (GEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites, while Starlink and OneWeb will use Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. LEO satellites are cheap to build and deploy, but require a satellite constellation working in sync to offer coverage on Earth. On the other hand, GEO and MEO satellites are larger, deployed in higher orbits, and therefore cost more. These satellites cover a large area and require fewer ground stations, which makes them ideal for targeted coverage areas. LEOs move rapidly and therefore can provide global coverage.

What are the benefits of satellite internet?

Telecom companies want to explore satellite Internet, as there are areas that fiber connections cannot reach. Satellite networks are used to bring connectivity to areas that include hills and remote islands. Consumer applications are new, but satellite networks have been used for ages in military applications.

Are there any disadvantages?

The applications and power of satellite Internet are often exaggerated. In fact, these networks have limitations, with the biggest being high latency and low bandwidth. Latency is about the speed of the Internet, while bandwidth determines how many devices can be connected to the network at the same time. Experts say that the current satellite connection will bring in 1-2 MB of bandwidth, which qualifies as broadband under India’s broadband policy. Troubleshooting can be a problem as it requires specialized knowledge.

Who can use Satellite Internet?

Armies around the world have long relied on satellite communications. However, many military experts also consider this form to be unreliable and so expensive that it cannot be made the only communication medium. In remote areas, satellite Internet may still allow businesses to open local branches and provide digital services. Theoretically, a bank can set up more ATMs in remote areas if it has satellite internet. Similarly, retail outlets and many essential services.