Starlink · SpaceX · Google · The Verge
A battery-powered Starlink Mini is likely on the way
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Key facts
- Right now, the Starlink Mini must be tethered to an AC wall outlet or portable battery to latch onto those 10,000-plus satellites operating in low Earth orbit
- University researcher Jinwei Zhao spotted several strings hinting at the integrated battery in a May firmware release, according to PCMag
- You can also buy batteries like the impressive PeakDo LinkPower series, which slot right into the back of the Starlink Mini
- Code in recent Starlink firmware suggests that SpaceX might soon release a version of its smallest internet dish with an integrated battery
Summary
Code in recent Starlink firmware suggests that SpaceX might soon release a version of its smallest internet dish with an integrated battery. University researcher Jinwei Zhao spotted several strings hinting at the integrated battery in a May firmware release, according to PCMag. The firmware also contains code referring to three distinct power states, suggesting the unit can run off a direct USB-C power source, its own internal battery, or both simultaneously. Right now, the Starlink Mini must be tethered to an AC wall outlet or portable battery to latch onto those 10,000-plus satellites operating in low Earth orbit. A Starlink Mini with an integrated battery would presumably work seamlessly in the Starlink app, be supported by SpaceX’s warranty, and allow the dish to be constructed as compactly as possible, likely around an airline-friendly 99Wh battery, which could yield over five hours of runtime based on their testing.