ScotRail trials wi-fi utilizing Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites

ScotRail will use Elon Musk’s satellite tv for pc expertise to produce passenger wi-fi on trains for the primary time throughout a six-month trial.

Six trains within the north of Scotland have been fitted with gear that connects to the low Earth orbit (Leo) satellite tv for pc community Starlink.

The trains function on the Inverness to Wick, Thurso, Kyle of Lochalsh, and Aberdeen companies.

ScotRail stated the brand new system was a primary for the UK when it comes to onboard passenger wi-fi and, if profitable, might be rolled out to south of Scotland companies.

The trial may additionally result in the roll-out of the expertise throughout the opposite class 158 trains in ScotRail’s fleet.

This may cowl a number of rural traces together with the West Highlands, Stranraer, Dumfries and the Borders.

ScotRail stated it will additionally assist to affect the inclusion of the expertise when shopping for new trains.

The publicly-owned rail operator has partnered with Clarus Networks, which sells entry to billionaire Musk’s Starlink satellites within the UK.

Enterprise Minister Richard Lochhead stated dependable web connections would make passengers’ journeys extra pleasing.

ScotRail technique and planning director, Scott Prentice, added: “The mission addresses the long-standing challenges we have had for prepare connectivity within the area, and we hope it’s going to result in a future roll-out of the expertise throughout different rural routes in Scotland.”

Musk, the controversial proprietor of Tesla and at the moment senior adviser to US President Donald Trump, has been criticised by senior figures in Scotland politics, together with First Minister John Swinney.

He has additionally publicly clashed with Swinney’s predecessor Humza Yousaf.