what is starlink

Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX, an American aerospace company, that provides coverage to over 60 countries. It is a constellation of thousands of satellites that orbit the planet much closer to Earth, at about 550km, and cover the entire globe. SpaceX started launching Starlink satellites in 2019 and aims to provide global mobile phone service after 2023. Starlink provides satellite-based internet connectivity to underserved areas of the planet, as well as competitively priced service in more urbanized areas. The Starlink app helps customers customize settings, receive updates, access support, and see real-time performance data like download speed, latency, and uptime. Starlink is also used for warfare, connecting combat drones, naval drones, artillery fire coordination systems, and more. Starlink trains, appearing as a string of bright lights in the sky, can be seen shortly after launch but are far more difficult to differentiate against the backdrop of stars once they climb to their operating altitude of 340 miles (550 kilometers). SpaceX has also unveiled new variants of the Starlink service, such as Starlink For RVs and Starlink Maritime, to help support users and companies on the ocean.