SpaceX may soon introduce a new modification of its most compact satellite terminal, the Starlink Mini, equipped with a built-in battery. The update will make the device fully mobile, simplifying work for rescuers, military personnel, and travelers.
This was reported by the specialized publication PCMag, citing research by IT specialist Jinwei Zhao, who analyzed the May version of the device's firmware.
What was found in the Starlink Mini firmware
The software code revealed lines that directly indicate the presence of an integrated power source. In particular, the message DishBatteryStats command is designed to read the terminal's internal battery indicators, including the exact charge level (state_of_charge). If the antenna were powered solely by external portable batteries, the Starlink firmware would not have the technical capability to directly obtain this data.
Additionally, the software mentions three different power operating modes. This indicates that the future device will be able to operate from the mains via USB-C, from its own battery, or in hybrid mode.
What capabilities the new terminal may have
Pass-through power support will help preserve battery life and prevent rapid wear after several hundred charging cycles.
The current version of the Starlink Mini requires a constant connection to a power outlet or external power bank. Third-party solutions already exist on the market, such as the PeakDo LinkPower battery units that attach directly to the back panel of the antenna. However, such accessories are expensive and their software operates unstably compared to native integration from SpaceX.
It is expected that the official version of the Starlink Mini with a built-in battery will receive full support in the official app and a manufacturer's warranty. Most likely, the company's engineers will use a battery with a capacity of up to 99 Wh, the maximum limit allowed for air travel. According to preliminary tests of similar configurations, this capacity provides over five hours of continuous autonomous operation of the terminal.
Based on: dev.ua
