(GIST OF SCIENCE REPORTER) STARLINK SATELLITE INTERNET

(APRIL-2025)

After Airtel, telecom giant Jio has also signed a deal with SpaceX to bring Starlink satellite internet to India.

Objective: To extend high-speed satellite internet to even the most remote and rural parts of India.

Jio’s strength: World’s largest mobile network by data traffic and user base.
SpaceX’s strength: Global leader in low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet through Starlink.
The partnership aims to combine Jio’s reach and Starlink’s tech to offer reliable broadband across India. Airtel–Starlink Agreement
Airtel is also in talks with Starlink to provide satellite-based internet services.

Under this deal:

Airtel may sell Starlink devices through its retail outlets.
The two will work together to bring fast internet to rural schools, healthcare centres, and remote villages, helping bridge India’s digital divide.

What is Satellite Internet?

Satellite internet provides internet access through communication satellites orbiting Earth.
If it offers high-speed connections, it’s called satellite broadband.

1. Geostationary satellites (older tech): Stay fixed over one spot on Earth. Provide good coverage but with high latency (delay).

2. Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites (new tech):

Why is This Important for India?

Many remote and rural areas in India still lack good internet.
Satellite internet can reach places where fiber cables can’t go — like mountains, deserts, forests, or isolated villages.

• It helps in:

1. Wider Availability

Can provide internet even in remote mountains, deserts, or villages where no cables or towers exist.
Makes internet truly global.

2. Faster & Cost-Effective

Modern satellite internet can be 10 to 35 times faster than old dial-up connections.
It’s becoming cheaper than laying fiber-optic cables, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

3. Eco-Friendly Installation