SpaceX’s Starlink Delivers Free Internet to Helene-Affected Areas

SpaceX distributed more than 10,000 Starlink terminals in the regions affected by Hurricanes Helena and Milton. The company cancelled monthly subscription fees for all disaster victims for the rest of the year. It provided the ability to send 911 text messages and receive emergency alerts through the Direct To Cell service.

Starlink: Free Internet for Hurricane Victims

In late September and early October, the southern and southeastern states of the United States were hit hard when Hurricanes Helen and Milton struck one after another, destroying homes, roads and critical infrastructure. Entire neighbourhoods lost access to food, water, electricity and communications, including cellular and internet service. 

To help residents affected by the high winds, rain and flooding caused by these extreme weather events, Elon Musk’s Starlink offered free access to the technology for 30 days. The satellite internet service would allow them to use vital online services even if they were left without power or forced to leave their homes.

However, the offer received an adverse reaction online because new customers were required to purchase a Starlink kit, which costs $396.68, including equipment, taxes, shipping and handling, to access this free service.

According to the Starlink Helene page, new customers will still have to pay $299 for Starlink dish equipment, and deliveries should arrive in one or two weeks.

SpaceX said it had delivered more than 10,000 Starlink kits to Helena victims as of 8 October. Musk said Starlink terminals are being deployed to public buildings such as city halls, fire stations and the like, and there is evidence that terminals have been deployed to these locations.

Direct to Cell Service Runs in Disaster Areas

In addition, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has authorised SpaceX and Elon Musk’s T Mobile to use Starlink satellites with direct cellular connectivity to provide cellular phone coverage in North Carolina, which was hard hit by Hurricane Helene.

The commission often issues such emergency temporary permits during natural disasters to help restore wireless and internet service in hard-hit areas and conduct testing.

SpaceX said it aligned with T-Mobile to provide satellites with ‘direct cellular access’ to send emergency alerts to all phones and carriers in the affected areas. The company said the service works best outdoors.