SpaceX’s satellite internet is becoming more mobile and accessible. The startup known for its space-based Starlink internet program has unveiled a mobile mini antenna small enough to fit in a backpack.
Announcing the product on X in June, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk wrote, “I just set it up and am typing this post through space. Took less than 5 minutes. Can easily be carried in a backpack. This product will change the world.” Musk then posted a purported speed test for the connection, which showed a download speed of 100 Mbps, an upload speed of 11.5 Mbps, and a latency of 23 ms.
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When the device launched in June, it was tied to a residential Starlink subscription, meaning not everyone could sign up. SpaceX has since removed that requirement and made Starlink Mini available to anyone.
The Mini, which costs $599, offers internet access anywhere in the U.S., SpaceX says. The 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 the service at any time, billed in monthly increments. In-drive usage is only supported on the Mini Roam service plan, but Mobile Regional customers can opt for in-drive usage on a per-GB basis.
The device weighs just over two pounds and measures 12 x 10 x 1.5 inches, which is just a little larger than a letter-sized sheet of paper (but much thicker, of course). Starlink Mini is significantly smaller and lighter than a regular Starlink dish and uses much less power. If you’re concerned about Starlink Mini’s safety outdoors, know that it’s designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -22°F to 122°F and is IP67 dust and water resistant.
If you often find yourself in places without cell reception, Starlink Mini may be just what you need.
