Testing the Viability of Starlink for Remote Indigenous Communities and Indigenous Students
Date
2023-09-19
Authors
Jindani, Aymon
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Abstract
Access to reliable and high-speed internet connectivity is a critical aspect of modern life - enabling communication, educational and economic opportunities. However, many remote Indigenous communities and students residing in British Columbia still face significant challenges in accessing the internet due to geographical barriers and limited infrastructure. This research project investigates the viability of Starlink, a satellite-based internet service developed by SpaceX, in addressing the digital divide in such marginalized regions. The study does a quantitative data analysis of Starlink in motion. Satellite internet coverage, latency, download and upload speeds, and overall service performance are evaluated using real-world testing of Starlink. Preliminary research suggests that Starlink holds promising potential for bridging the digital gap in remote Indigenous communities. The satellite-based technology has demonstrated remarkable improvements in internet speeds and reliability compared to traditional ground-based alternatives, especially for remote communities. However, challenges remain such as affordability, and the research discusses these issues alongside the technical considerations. The research concludes by offering insights into the potential for future development and implementation of Starlink for remote communities and school buses for Indigenous students who have to commute for multiple hours each day.
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Keywords
Starlink, Internet, Remote, Indigenous