SpaceX’s Starlink and OneWeb are two of the most ambitious efforts to create a constellation of satellites in low-Earth orbit. Both projects are focused on providing worldwide, high-speed internet access, but they each have very different strategies. The two networks use different types of satellites, different regulatory models and have different long-term visions.
Starlink is SpaceX’s newly launched constellation of satellites. It currently consists of 1,400 and aims to be made up of 12,000 at full capacity. Each satellite uses Ka and Ku frequency bands to provide internet access, and consumers are offered wireless router boxes that link up to terminals and sub-satellites so that access to the satellites is easier.
OneWeb, on the other hand, is a much larger constellation of more than 648 currently operational satellites, and the ambition to reach over 40,000 satellites in total. It uses the lower frequency bands, such as Ku and Ka, but also employs Ka streams for Universal Mobile Telecommunications System to connect ground users to the OneWeb constellation. This gives OneWeb more bandwidth, allowing it to provide internet speeds of up to 1 Gb per second.
In terms of the regulatory model, SpaceX is using the FCC’s open access model, which means anyone can access their network, whereas OneWeb is using an open access model, where users can access the network but need to conform to OneWeb’s rules and regulations. With the open access model, OneWeb can control the user experience better, ensuring a consistent and high quality experience.
Ultimately, both systems have their advantages and disadvantages, but they are different strategies and approaches to achieving their goal of providing worldwide internet access. Starlink provides better consumer access with their ground terminal boxes, while OneWeb’s larger network and frequency model provides higher speeds and a more controlled user experience. Ultimately, it is up to the consumer to decide which system works best for them.
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