Satellite networks in agriculture – experiences using Starlink

In this work, the use of Starlink as a satellite network in agriculture is analyzed and compared to Mobile Networks. It will investigate the challenges and opportunities of using satellite networks in areas with limited mobile phone coverage. The study includes the communication of georeferenced data between agricultural machines and Farm Management Information Systems (FMIS), as well as the transmission of RTK signals, drone images, and machine data. The experiments were conducted in Northwest Germany and showed that Starlink is a reliable and stable solution for transmission in so-called 0G areas. Time-critical applications such as precise GPS navigation of agricultural machines are possible due to latency times between 25 and 60 ms. Prices start at 60 euros per month.