One New Zealand (One NZ) has reported that its field tests for satellite-to-mobile services over Starlink satellites are progressing well. Network engineers in Christchurch have successfully sent and received SMS messages from an unmodified phone through the Starlink Direct-to-Cell constellation. A testing plan is in place and is expected to continue through the Christmas holidays, with tests in other parts of the country as well, the operator said.
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Successful SMS Tests with Starlink Direct-to-Cell
"It's a historic moment," says One NZ's GM Network Services. "Successfully sending messages from the ground here on an unmodified phone is real-world validation of years of planning and preparation by the One NZ and SpaceX teams."
"Satellite messaging will give us a resilient back-up for our ground-based mobile network. This will make it safer to explore our country and help businesses across New Zealand be more productive."
Ongoing Nationwide Testing
Testing is ongoing, with engineers travelling nationwide to ensure the service performs well under all real-world conditions. With over 230 Starlink satellites already in orbit and more being added, the service's infrastructure is expanding rapidly, according to the official release. One NZ aims to launch the service when messages can be sent or received within minutes.
The first text sent during the test—"Up the Wahs!!! – One NZ SpaceX team"—was sent from outside One New Zealand's Christchurch support office.
"We're sending engineers up and down the country, putting the Starlink Direct to Cell service through its paces, so we can be confident it works under all kinds of real-world conditions before we get this new tech into the hands of our customers," One NZ said.
Also Read: One NZ to Create Separate Entity for Its Fibre Assets
SpaceX Activates Satellite Beams for Field Tests
SpaceX activated its Starlink Direct-to-Cell satellite beams for New Zealand testing on October 15, after receiving legislative approvals to begin field testing.
The service is expected to provide better connectivity in remote areas and offer businesses a resilient communication option.
