Starlink, the satellite internet service provided by SpaceX, is set to make its debut in the Czech Republic this week with the first local retailer offering the Starlink Standard Kit for sale. Previously, Czech customers had to order the equipment from abroad, but now they can purchase it directly from Alza, a leading online retailer in the country.
According to Alza spokesperson Eliška Čeřovská, the availability of Starlink kits in the Czech Republic is expected to be limited initially, as more retailers may start offering the product in the future. The Starlink Standard Kit includes everything needed for self-installation in two simple steps, such as the Starlink stand, Gen 3 router, Starlink cable, network cable, and power adapter. Alza also plans to expand its offerings with optional accessories or new Starlink kit models in the future.
It’s important to note that the kit includes only the hardware, and users need to order a tariff directly from the Starlink website. All Starlink tariffs come with unlimited high-speed data, and users are not tied to long-term contracts, allowing them to cancel the service at any time. The pricing for the tariff starts at 1249 Czech crowns per month.
The Starlink service is described as a unique product ideal for areas with poor GSM signal coverage, remote locations, caravan or boat owners. Its main advantage lies in providing internet connectivity regardless of the user’s location, without relying on traditional data plans from mobile operators. Čeřovská emphasized that offering this product to customers has been a successful choice based on the positive response during the pre-order phase.
The Starlink project, initiated five years ago, aims to create a global network using thousands of small satellites in low Earth orbit to deliver high-speed internet access from anywhere on the planet. These satellites orbit at approximately 550 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. SpaceX, the company behind Starlink, is owned by entrepreneur Elon Musk and is currently providing navigation services to countries like Ukraine and Russia in their ongoing conflict. Starlink’s network comprises over 60% of the roughly 7500 artificial satellites orbiting Earth, making it the only operational satellite internet configuration. Despite having fewer satellites in orbit than the final planned number, Starlink’s service is already functioning well in the Czech Republic.
In conclusion, the introduction of Starlink in the Czech Republic through local retailers like Alza marks a significant milestone in expanding access to high-speed internet in remote or underserved areas. The innovative technology and flexible service offerings of Starlink have the potential to revolutionize internet connectivity for users across the country, providing a reliable and efficient solution for those in need of reliable internet access.