SpaceX’s satellite internet is becoming more portable and much more widely available. The startup known for its satellite internet Starlink Internet Program has unveiled a mini mobile antenna that is small enough to fit in a backpack.
Announcing the product at X in June, Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, wrote“I just installed it and am writing this article from space. It took me less than 5 minutes. It can easily be carried in a backpack. This product will change the world.” Musk posted an alleged speed test of the connection, which showed a download speed of 100Mbps, an upload speed of 11.5Mbps and a latency of 23ms.
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When the device debuted in June, it was tied to a residential Starlink subscription, meaning not just anyone could sign up. SpaceX has removed that requirement and opened up Starlink Mini to the general public.
The Mini, which costs $599, provides Internet access anywhere in the United States, SpaceX says. Service costs $50 per month for a 50GB plan (Mini Roam) or $150 per month for unlimited data (Mobile Regional). You can pause and resume service at any time, with billing in one-month increments. On-the-go usage is only supported on the Mini Roam service plan, but Mobile Regional customers can opt to use service on the go on a per GB basis.
The device weighs just over two pounds and measures 12 x 10 x 1.5 inches, which is only slightly larger than a letter-sized piece of paper (but much thicker, of course). The Starlink Mini is significantly smaller and lighter than a regular Starlink antenna, and it consumes much less power. If you’re concerned about keeping the Starlink Mini safe outdoors, you should know that it’s designed to operate in temperatures from -22°F to 122°F and is IP67-rated dust and water resistant.
If you often find yourself in places without cellular connectivity, the Starlink Mini might be ideal for you.