When the World Wide Web became available to the public in 1993, it transformed communications forever. People around the globe could suddenly use computers to access information and interact with others from their homes and businesses.
Today, we’re witnessing a similar revolution in satellite communications technology. With satellite internet, anyone can log on from pretty much anywhere.
This widespread availability has already led to some more well-known applications, like for first responders and resource extraction industries. However, these applications only scratch the surface, as mobile satellite internet has infinite potential.
Already, organizations and individuals are using satellite-based internet in remarkable ways. Here are nine of the more intriguing satellite internet use cases.
1. Education
As modern education relies increasingly on technology, an internet connection is more important than ever. Satellite internet allows governments to offer the same education standard to all students, regardless of their location. As a result, rural schools can now enjoy the same opportunities as their well-connected counterparts.
Satellite internet is especially transformative in countries lacking terrestrial infrastructure due to economic status or geography. While children in developing economies may not have access to education for several reasons, internet availability is certainly a factor. Satellite internet removes one of the most significant barriers to education for all.
2. News and Entertainment
Satellite internet also streamlines in-the-field reporting for news and entertainment outlets.
News organizations can leverage satellite internet to broadcast high-quality live video and audio feeds on the scene. Satellites also simplify reporting from remote locations or conflict zones where traditional telecom infrastructure may be inadequate or unavailable.
The same technology can also facilitate live entertainment coverage in unconnected places, such as:
- Sporting events
- Concerts and large events
- Parades and festivals
- Cultural events
3. Maritime Communications
High-speed satellite internet is equally helpful for those at sea. Internet users on the open ocean can rely on satellites for safety features like navigation and communication and for entertainment during long voyages.
Satellite internet impacts various marine industries, including:
- Logistics and transportation – Transoceanic cargo freighters can stay connected on multi-day crossings, even when the closest speck of land is miles away.
- Coast Guard – Maritime organizations can leverage connectivity to secure coastal borders and communicate with distressed vessels during rescue operations.
- Recreational use – Even sailboat and yacht operators can use satellite internet to receive weather updates, stream videos and send messages to their families back home.
4. Agriculture
Agricultural regions are often far from population centers. Because rural communities are less dense than urban areas, traditional internet service providers (ISPs) haven’t always had a financial incentive to expand their services. As such, many farmers have slow internet—if they have it at all.
Satellite internet brings connectivity to even the most remote farms. Once connected, agricultural professionals can more closely follow crop prices and communicate directly with buyers and suppliers.
While satellite internet enables agricultural producers to communicate more easily with the rest of the world, it can also improve working conditions. For instance, satellite-based internet makes the use of remote sensors possible. With the right technology, farmers can monitor soil quality and crop development to save time and money.
5. Healthcare
Healthcare is another of the many industries that can use satellite internet to connect remotely. In some locations, adequate healthcare can be a several-hour drive away, putting residents’ health at risk.
Satellite internet can bring healthcare to the entire world through telemedicine. Rural dwellers can use video conferencing to seek care from healthcare providers, so even the most remote patients can receive diagnoses.
Additionally, those in poorly-connected locations can now use remote monitoring devices. These tools (such as internet-enabled heart monitors and blood glucose meters) can help doctors develop a clearer picture of their patients’ health.
6. Environmental Monitoring
Because satellite internet is available anywhere on Earth, government agencies and scientists can use devices to monitor areas of interest without physically visiting them. In addition, sensors connected via satellite internet enable experts to survey locations they can’t normally access.
Remote sensors can help researchers predict, monitor and manage:
- Forest fires
- Landslides
- Avalanches
- Declining wildlife populations
- Tropical storms and hurricanes
What’s more, scientists in the field can use satellite internet to communicate with agencies or universities to send photos, videos and data in real time.
7. Gaming
Although video games may not be as critical as healthcare or education services, those in remote locations still deserve to unwind with a game or two. And with improved satellite internet, they can.
Geostationary satellites orbit 36,000 km (22,369 mi) from the Earth’s equator. Unfortunately, this enormous distance leads to a latency of more than 600ms, making most online games unplayable.
But thanks to the influx of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites from organizations like Starlink and OneWeb, low-latency satellite internet is becoming a reality. These satellites are far closer to the Earth, so there’s a much shorter delay when sending information.
Since anything under 50ms is fast enough for gaming, satellite internet can make online entertainment accessible for millions more people.
8. Modern Nomadic Living
According to data from 2022, 35% of US workers now have the option to work from home full-time. However, many of these employees may not choose to work from home in the traditional sense. Instead, more and more workers are living as “digital nomads.”
Digital nomads may move from place to place every few months or travel daily. Either way, they need access to the internet to work—and satellite technology can deliver. Whether boarding a cruise ship or road-tripping in an RV, remote workers on the go can use satellite internet to stay connected.
9. Space Exploration
The impact of satellite internet isn’t limited to Earth-bound humans, either. Astronauts on the International Space Station can rely on satellites to send and receive data to and from Earth.
As recreational space travel becomes more accessible to non-astronauts, the need for in-space connectivity will grow. In addition, satellites make the internet available beyond our atmosphere.
Looking ahead, satellite internet could also play a role in trips to the Moon, Mars and other far-off destinations. What the future holds is anyone’s guess, but satellite-based internet will likely be a part of it.
IP Access: Reliable Satellite Internet for Every Use Case
Satellite internet stands to change communication as we know it. Until now, no other technology has made the internet accessible to this many people. It’s no exaggeration to say that satellite internet is one of the most significant advances of our generation.
However, today’s online environment means that not just any internet connection will do. With the rise of telecommuting, cloud computing and high-quality streaming, the need for reliable, lightning-quick connectivity is greater than ever.
For satellite internet to truly benefit billions of people, it must be fast, affordable and easy to use. At IP Access International, our mobile satellite internet service ticks all these boxes. With minimal setup and reliable coverage, we help government agencies and private businesses alike capitalize on the myriad uses for satellite internet.
Contact us to learn more about features, pricing and our other connectivity solutions.