SpaceX Opens Starlink Internet Beta Test To The Public

SpaceX has opened the registration for the beta testing of its space-based Internet service via the company’s Starlink satellites. The company is most likely rolling out the service’s beta test in preparation for a possible commercial launch soon.

Those looking to try out SpaceX’s Internet service may register through Starlink’s website. Upon opening the page, users will be prompted to enter their email address, zip code and country to complete the registration process.

Users who are able to successfully register will then receive an email message from SpaceX, which discusses brief details about the beta testing phases. As noted by the company, registered users will be notified as soon as beta testing is available in their region.

“Starlink is designed to deliver high-speed broadband internet to locations where access has been unreliable, expensive, or completely unavailable,” the company stated. “Private beta testing is expected to begin later this summer, followed by public beta testing, starting with higher latitudes.”

“If you provided us with your zip code, you will be notified via email if beta testing opportunities become available in your area,” SpaceX added. “In the meantime, we will continue to share with you updates about general service availability and upcoming Starlink launches.”

Although the company did not mention where Starlink’s beta testing will be available first, SpaceX founder Elon Musk revealed in a tweet in May that the initial testing phase for Starlink will only be available in areas at higher latitudes, such as Seattle. Musk noted that it might also be available in London.

Eventually, as more Starlink satellites enter low-Earth orbit, the service will be available to different parts of the world. In total, SpaceX plans to launch up to 42,000 Starlink satellites. Currently, the company has over 500 Starlink units orbiting Earth.

Through Starlink’s Internet service, SpaceX is promising to deliver speeds of up to one gigabit per second with a latency of about 30 milliseconds. Hype Beast noted that SpaceX is targeting to launch Starlink’s service commercially in North America later this year. It might reach the rest of the world sometime in 2021.