due to a recent shift in FCC approvals, Starlink is now permitted to reduce the minimum angle to 10 degrees for satellites functioning below an altitude of 400 kilometers, and 20 degrees for those operating between 400 and 500 kilometers. For user terminals situated above 62 degrees north latitude, including areas in Canada and further north, the angle can be as low as 5 degrees.
This modification will enhance service in various ways for Starlink users. It will increase network latency and performance. Furthermore, it will enable Earth-positioned dishes to maintain connectivity for extended periods while Starlink satellites are in the vicinity. With a steeper angle, the dish disregards satellites that fall out of range, and this adjustment provides a broader field of view. This means longer connections with satellites as they traverse the sky. It also implies that Starlink satellites can cater to more user terminals simultaneously. This is encouraging news given that SpaceX has recently achieved a significant milestone by launching a total of 10,000 Starlink satellites, with additional units on the horizon. An increased number of satellites can provide more active and dependable connections for improved service and a greater number of users served.