Satellite internet is a type of internet connection that uses satellites orbiting the Earth to provide internet access. Unlike traditional broadband, which relies on cables like fiber optic or DSL, satellite internet transmits data between a satellite dish on the ground and satellites in space. Here's how it works:
1. **Data transmission**: When you use the internet, your requests (like loading a webpage) are sent from your device to a satellite dish installed at your location.
2. **Satellite communication**: The dish sends this signal to a satellite in geostationary orbit (about 22,000 miles above Earth).
3. **Ground station**: The satellite relays the signal to a ground station, which connects to the wider internet.
4. **Response**: The requested data (like a webpage) is sent back to the ground station, which then relays it back to the satellite, and finally to your dish and device.
Advantages of Satellite internet:
- **Availability**: Satellite internet can reach remote and rural areas where other types of internet (like cable or DSL) are not available.
- **Mobility**: It's useful for moving vehicles or boats, depending on the system.
-**Starlink**: Recent advancements like **Starlink** (by SpaceX) are aiming to improve satellite internet, using a large constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites to reduce latency and increase speed.
Disadvantages of Satellite internet:
- **Latency**: Because of the long distance signals must travel to and from space, satellite internet can experience high latency, meaning there is a delay in data transmission.
- **Weather interference**: Severe weather can disrupt the signal.
- **Data caps and speed**: Satellite internet often has lower speeds and data caps compared to other broadband services.