Bhutan, a small Himalayan kingdom nestled between India and China, has been struggling with internet connectivity for years. The country’s rugged terrain and remote location have made it difficult to establish reliable internet infrastructure. However, a new technology called Starlink is set to revolutionize internet connectivity in Bhutan.
Starlink is a satellite internet service provided by SpaceX, the space exploration company founded by Elon Musk. The service uses a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites to provide high-speed internet to remote areas around the world. The satellites are designed to operate at a much lower altitude than traditional satellites, which means they can provide faster internet speeds with lower latency.
Bhutan has been one of the first countries to embrace Starlink. The government has signed an agreement with SpaceX to provide internet connectivity to remote areas of the country. The service is expected to be rolled out in phases, with the first phase covering the eastern and central regions of Bhutan.
The benefits of Starlink for Bhutan are significant. The country has a population of just over 750,000 people, and many of them live in remote areas without access to reliable internet. This has made it difficult for businesses to operate, for students to access online education, and for healthcare providers to deliver telemedicine services. With Starlink, these issues will be addressed, and Bhutan will be able to connect to the rest of the world in a way that was previously impossible.
The government of Bhutan has also recognized the potential of Starlink for tourism. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique culture, but many tourists have been deterred by the lack of reliable internet connectivity. With Starlink, tourists will be able to stay connected while exploring the country, which will make Bhutan a more attractive destination for travelers.
The rollout of Starlink in Bhutan is not without its challenges. The service requires a clear line of sight to the satellites, which means that trees and other obstacles can interfere with the signal. This is a particular challenge in Bhutan, where the terrain is rugged and heavily forested. However, the government is working with SpaceX to find solutions to these challenges, and the rollout of the service is expected to proceed smoothly.
The cost of Starlink in Bhutan is also a concern. The service is currently priced at $99 per month, which is significantly higher than the cost of traditional internet services in the country. However, the government of Bhutan has committed to subsidizing the cost of the service for rural communities, which will make it more affordable for those who need it most.
Overall, the rollout of Starlink in Bhutan is a significant development for the country. The service has the potential to transform the way that Bhutan connects to the rest of the world, and to address some of the longstanding challenges that the country has faced in terms of internet connectivity. With the support of the government and the expertise of SpaceX, Bhutan is poised to become a leader in satellite internet technology, and to reap the benefits of this innovative new service.