Will Starlink Work In Wooded Areas? Undoubtedly, Starlink is making waves in the internet service provision industry. But like any other technology, it is with fault.
One of the major issues is getting obstructions from other satellites, weather conditions like heavy rains, tall buildings, and trees.
While it is hard to control certain circumstances like weather, you might wonder if Starlink will work in wooded areas.
The brief answer is yes, it can. However, this will need more adjustment to ensure the satellite’s top-notch performance.
Today, we will show you different ways of navigating the situation, so worry not if you have trees around your place.
How Does Starlink Antenna Work?
Before we understand why wooded areas may be detrimental to an effectively working Starlink, let us know how the antenna works.
Generally, a Starlink dish/antenna utilizes phased arrays to transmit information to and from satellites in the LEO (Low Earth Orbit).
As such, the dish will track and instantaneously link to a satellite within its radius to sustain an internet connection.
Moreover, we know that satellites revolve around the earth.
Therefore, the Starlink company ensured an array antenna has many miniature components that electronically dissipate beams together.
Consequently, it can communicate with several different satellites orbiting Earth.
(Starlink satellite train)
For the antenna to work excellently, it needs a clear view of the sky, which directly translates to a clear view of satellites.
If there are obstructions like tall buildings and trees, you will experience packet loss, buffering, reduced internet speed, and disrupted signals. Additionally, trees have water content, which hinders radio wave transmission from satellites.
Will Starlink Work In Wooded Areas?
Starlink works best in areas with clear skies. Nonetheless, some users may not be advantaged, especially in wooded locations.
As we have discussed, trees close to a Starlink dish are disastrous to your connection. So, despite your active Starlink plan, using it will be slow and irritating.
Fortunately, the Starlink application has an obstruction tool that helps individuals check for obstacles within their areas before purchases and installation.
Once you download the app, survey the area and check for hindrances like poles. Afterward, you can determine the best place for installation.
How Can I Improve the Signal of Starlink Work in Wooded Areas?
Generally, there are several ways you can achieve optimal Starlink performance in wooden areas. Below, we will discuss some methods you can use to avoid obstructions.
Solution for Starlink RV users
For our adventurous campers, each camping experience is different, but we can all agree that wooded areas are the most challenging. You cannot cut or trim trees, which is a bummer. Similarly, you cannot mount your dish on a higher ground since it’s a temporary stay.
Some solutions include the following:
- One, you can carry a long cable to connect your antenna away from the obstructions.
- Also, you can temporarily mount your antenna to shift to a suitable angle. An adjustable pole will come in handy here.
(Camping)
Solution for Home Users
Using a Tower Mount
Tower mounting means placing your Starlink dish in a pre-installed tower to ensure elevation beyond obstacles. Despite being one of our go-to solutions, it may be expensive since you’ll require an expert for the installation and other logistics involved.
(Telecommunication tower)
However, if you do it alone, ensure you adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions in the letter. For instance, most companies advise against installing antennas close to electronics since the latter may interfere with the internet signal system.
Installing away from the House
The second option is to locate a place within your compound that’s clear from tall obstructive trees. Then, freely install your Starlink antenna.
Also, a pro tip here: you may need to order about 150-200ft extension cable to cover the long distance from your house.
But with the cable, you have to take precautions since a lawnmower might unintentionally snip it. Likewise, your beloved pets might chew and destroy it.
(Starlink dish installed far away from the house)
When figuring out the perfect distance to place the dish from the trees, consider this formula:
Dist. = (Height of tree) – (Height of dish) x 2.5
Practical example;
Let’s say your tree height is 90ft, and the dish height is 50ft. The distance of dish placement from the tree should be 100ft.
[(90-50) x 2.5].
Cutting or Trimming surrounding trees
Sometimes, the trees might be extremely tall, so installing an antenna above them is practically impossible.
In this case, you can consider trimming or curing down the trees to expose a clear sky view.
Furthermore, you will continuously have to maintain the regrowth by constant trimming.
(Cutting large obstructing trees)
Chimney Mount
In addition, chimneys are often ideal for mounting because of their extended vertical heights from the roof.
To make this work, simply fit a pole or long mast on the chimney, mount your Starlink dish, and voila!
(Satellite dish antenna mounted on the chimney)
Roof Mount
Lastly, if you have a high-enough roof, you’re in luck. With a few aftermarket products from the company or hardware store, you will install the antenna on your roof.
(Starlink dish on the roof)
Conclusion
Wooded areas can safely accommodate a Starlink network but need some modifications.
For example, you can trim or cut tall trees, mount the antenna on a chimney/roof/tower, or install the dish far from your house.
The methods we mentioned are not a one-size-fits-all and will need trial and error to know your ideal option.
Either way, we would love to hear your progress on the installation/mounting and the difference it makes. Be sure to also check our website for further information or clarification on Starlink.