SpaceX is rolling out an energy-conservation feature for its Starlink satellite internet system.
The “Sleep Schedule” function, added to the Starlink app this week, can automatically deactivate a Starlink dish during certain parts of the day, like at night, when the system isn’t in use.
“Conserve power by scheduling your Starlink to sleep. Starlink won’t provide internet or melt snow while sleeping,” the feature says, according to user screenshots.
(Credit: Twitter user @VirtuallyNathan)
SpaceX likely designed Sleep Scheduling for Starlink RV customers or those who live off the grid. By connecting to orbiting satellites, a Starlink dish can receive high-speed broadband in rural and remote regions across North America. But doing so consumes electricity, which can be limited or scarce on outdoor adventures. With a Sleep Schedule, these users won’t have to manually power down their dish and can instead set a time for it to power down and reawaken.
Using the feature at home could also help cut down on electricity costs. But don’t be surprised if snow piles up on the Starlink dish during winter due to the hardware's self-heating capabilities going dormant.SpaceX notes: “Accumulated snow may take several hours to melt after your Starlink wakes up, and you may need to clear off snow to resume service.”
We haven’t seen the feature on the Starlink account for PCMag hardware analyst Brian Westover. So it’s possible SpaceX may be rolling out Sleep Mode first for subscribers on the Starlink RV tier, which is mainly designed for customers who need satellite internet service during road trips or while camping.
Get Our Best Stories!
Sign up for What's New Now to get our top stories delivered to your inbox every morning.
This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.
Thanks for signing up!
Your subscription has been confirmed. Keep an eye on your inbox!
I'm well-versed in satellite technology, particularly in the realm of SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet system. My expertise stems from closely following developments in space technology, including satellite communication systems and their applications.
The recently introduced "Sleep Schedule" feature for Starlink aligns with SpaceX's constant efforts to optimize user experience and efficiency. This feature showcases an understanding of the system's energy consumption and the needs of diverse user groups, such as RV travelers or those residing off-grid.
Let's break down the concepts within the article:
-
Starlink Satellite Internet System: This is SpaceX's project aiming to provide global broadband coverage by deploying a network of small satellites in low Earth orbit. The system targets areas with limited or no internet connectivity, offering high-speed internet access.
-
Sleep Schedule Function: This new feature allows users to schedule specific periods for their Starlink dish to power down and reactivate automatically. It conserves energy and is particularly beneficial for users with limited power supply, such as RV travelers or those living off-grid.
-
Energy Conservation: The Sleep Schedule feature aligns with SpaceX's aim to conserve energy, especially crucial for users relying on limited power sources during outdoor adventures or in remote areas.
-
Snow Accumulation and Self-Heating Capabilities: The article mentions that when the dish is in sleep mode, its self-heating capabilities also go dormant. Consequently, accumulated snow might not melt immediately after waking up, potentially interrupting the service until manually cleared.
-
Target Audience: The feature might initially roll out to subscribers in the Starlink RV tier, catering mainly to customers needing internet service during road trips or outdoor activities.
-
Impact at Home: Besides catering to outdoor enthusiasts, this feature could also benefit users at home by cutting down electricity costs.
SpaceX's innovation here showcases a strategic understanding of user needs in diverse environments and a commitment to improving satellite technology's accessibility and practicality.
