What is Starlink?
Starlink is a low-orbiting grid of internet satellites. Starlink is operated by SpaceX, providing low latency, high-speed, satellite internet access to 45 countries. It also aims for global mobile phone service after 2023. SpaceX started launching Starlink satellites in 2019.
Winegard Starlink HP $2,550 (includes freight)
Houston area Installation Service by Sats2Go from $900 (includes basic materials)
How does Starlink work?
Starlink, as mentioned before, is a satellite constellation that moves in groups 342 miles above the earth. Each area on earth is assigned cells, which limit how many Starlink users can be active in each area concurrently. This can be a challenge at times if there are no open cells you might not be able to get service or limited service. Starlink satellites move from the Northern skies, traveling south, and are constantly moving. DirecTV and Dish Network satellites are in a fixed, geostationary orbit in space above the equator.
Because Starlink satellites are in low orbit, you must have a large field of view to get reasonable service. The dish needs to alternate communication between different satellites, approximately every four minutes, as they continuously pass overhead. Trees and buildings are a concern since communication with these satellites relies on a line-of-sight basis to connect with your dish.