UK sees cheaper satellite broadband launched by EuroSat and ASTRA

A new two-way satellite service will soon be launched by a major satellite broadband operator that allow users that are currently unable to access fixed line connections due to their geographic location an alternative high speed broadband connection.

A new reseller agreement was signed recently between a Eurosat, a distributer of UK satellite equipment and SES-ASTRA, a European satellite operator. The marketing of ASTRA2Connect, a two way (both upload and download) broadband internet service from ASTRA, will now be made available using its BeyonDLS brand thanks to this new deal.

Many thousands of homes in the UK that are currently not able to access either fixed cable land-line or terrestrial ADSL ISPs will be targeted by this new service, which offers up to 2Mbps download speeds. A 256Kbps connection that offers “unlimited” access will be its entry level product with a price of just £19.99 per month on a 12 month contract.

The special projects manager at Eurosat, Mike Locke said “Thousands of households in the UK and Northern Ireland are in terrestrial broadband black spots. That does not only affect rural areas, but also city locations including greater London. Therefore, we are extremely happy that, with ASTRA2Connect, we are able to offer an easy, reliable and affordable solution for everyone.”

In recent times a number of satellite ISPs have disappeared due to the small potential customer base available and speed as low as 256Kbps for £19.99 isn’t that great. That said a price tag of £19.99 for a satellite provider is very cheap, especially when you consider it is offering a two-way service.

The cost of the equipment for anyone who is interested in the service will unfortunately cost around £300 and a professional installation may be even more expensive. There is little surprise that many will stick with their dialup connection when you also consider the inherent performance problems with satellite combined with these extra costs.