The role of satellite broadband
Satellite broadband plays a crucial role in bringing internet access to people around the world. In this article, we will explore how satellites enable global connectivity, the benefits they offer, and how they can bridge the gap between those with access to the internet and those without, the so-called digital divide.
What is satellite broadband?
This technology uses satellites, orbiting the Earth, to transmit and receive data signals between a home-based smaller satellite dish and internet users. This offers an alternative wireless solution to traditional networks, which rely on physical cables and infrastructure.
Why use satellite broadband?
- Bridging the digital divide: One of the most significant advantages of satellite broadband is its ability to help bridge the digital divide. Rural areas often lack physical infrastructure or have a challenging landscape, which makes it expensive and difficult to establish reliable internet connections. However, satellites can overcome these geographical barriers and provide high-speed connectivity to communities that would otherwise be left behind.
- Global coverage: Satellites enable global coverage, ensuring that people in remote areas, can access the Internet. By using satellites that move with the same speed as the rotation of the earth, (known as geostationary orbit) or using groups of very high speed satellites that orbit the earth at a close distance (known as Low Earth Orbit satellites), broadband signals can be beamed down to any point on the planet. This global coverage empowers individuals, businesses, and communities by granting them access to online resources, educational opportunities, e-commerce platforms, telemedicine, and much more.
- Reliable and resilient: This technology offers a reliable and resilient solution, particularly in areas prone to natural disasters or those with limited infrastructure. When hurricanes, earthquakes, or other emergencies occur, traditional communication networks are often severely affected or completely knocked out. However, satellites operate independently of ground-based systems, ensuring that broadband remains intact during challenging times. This resilience can be a lifeline for affected communities, providing vital communication channels for emergency services and disaster relief efforts.
- High speed: Modern satellites can provide high-speed broadband connections, rivalling or even surpassing those offered by traditional wired networks. This improvement in speed is crucial for activities that require significant bandwidth, such as video streaming and large file transfers.
The limitations of satellite broadband
While satellite connectivity offers numerous benefits, it is important to address some challenges as well. One limitation is the latency, or delay, in signal transmission due to the long distance that signals must travel to and from satellites in orbit. This can impact real-time applications such as online gaming or video conferencing. However, advancements in this technology, such as the use of LEO satellites, aim to reduce latency and enhance the overall user experience.
UK Government LEO satellite trials
The UK Government has launched a series of trials utilising compact satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to `boost broadband connectivity to some of the country’s most remote locations. These trials aim to address areas that fall outside the coverage of the £5 billion, which targets 85% nationwide coverage by 2025.
This project represents progress in exploring alternative technologies to extend broadband access to underserved areas. Early tests with satellites have shown promising speeds of up to 200 megabits per second, which would be a significant improvement for very hard to reach sites.
