13th November 2024 – Edinburgh, UK – In a groundbreaking step for rail connectivity, The Clarus Networks Group is now offering Starlink for trains. Starlink provides high-speed, low-latency internet access, tackling connectivity challenges that have long hindered rail operations and passenger experience in remote areas.
Clarus has worked with Starlink and industry regulators to certify the terminals, ensuring they meet stringent rail standards including EN50155, EN50121, and EN45545, to enable a robust and high-throughput service, harnessing low-Earth orbit (LEO) constellations perfectly suited for rail applications.
Driving Innovation in Rail Communication with a Global First
Through its collaboration with ScotRail, supported by Scottish Futures Trust, Clarus is equipping Class 158 trains on Scotland’s Far North Line with Starlink to address long-standing communication challenges in the Scottish Highlands. Beyond passenger services, Clarus is deploying Starlink on measurement trains and enhancing trackside infrastructure, delivering precise, real-time data for diagnostics and remote monitoring. This comprehensive approach supports safer and more efficient rail operations across the UK by providing reliable connectivity even in remote areas.
Starlink Designed Specifically for Trains
Starlink provides reliable, high-speed internet access for trains enabling the real-time monitoring and communications essential for modern rail operations. Supporting mission-critical applications such as live video feeds, infrastructure monitoring, and real-time vehicle condition data (RCM), Starlink connectivity on trains can enhance both safety and operational efficiency.
With a constellation of satellites orbiting Earth at approximately 550 km, Starlink delivers low latency (~40 ms) and download speeds up to 220 Mbps, ideal for in-motion connectivity. This robust service supports dynamic passenger information systems, precise train tracking, and reliable internet, enhancing the travel experience with uninterrupted streaming, video conferencing, and access to cloud services.
Integrated Connectivity for Modern Rail Systems
As a Starlink authorised reseller for trains, Clarus offers tailored data packages and service level agreements (SLAs) to meet the unique requirements of the rail industry, including trackside and wayside connectivity. Starlink can enhance remote infrastructure with solutions like surveillance at level crossings and connectivity for signal boxes, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional communication methods.
Strategic deployment of Starlink ensures comprehensive coverage and reliable communication across the rail network, whether in areas with local power or off-grid locations. This technology supports predictive maintenance, real-time data exchange, and a smoother overall travel experience for passengers and operators alike.
Starlink also meets the needs of the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) by offering low-latency data transmission that can either replace or work alongside traditional methods like MNO, GSM-R, Wi-Fi, and mmWave. This innovation addresses connectivity gaps in underserved regions, delivering consistent, high-performance communication where terrestrial solutions fall short.
Revolutionising Rail with Starlink: Key Applications
Starlink for trains opens new possibilities across rail operations, including:
- Monitoring flood and landslip conditions
- Enhancing security with advanced threat detection
- Providing temporary connectivity during incidents
- Supporting off-grid connectivity for user-operated crossings
- Monitoring track, bridge, and structural integrity
- Enabling connectivity at worksites and on maintenance vehicles
- Replacing legacy communication links at signal boxes
- Ensuring connectivity at operational sites and remote stations
- Facilitating real-time monitoring and train tracking
Mike Butler, Director of Rail and Innovation at Clarus, commented:
“Our certification of the latest Starlink terminal specifically designed for trains is a game-changer for rail communications. By deploying this advanced satellite technology as an authorised reseller, we’re delivering unparalleled connectivity that transforms operational efficiency and the passenger experience. This solution offers reliable, high-speed connectivity even in remote locations, supporting real-time monitoring and immediate response crucial for track condition assessments and fault diagnosis. Enhanced safety systems, such as surveillance at unmanned crossings, significantly mitigate risks and improve incident response times. This marks a major advancement in our mission to bridge the digital divide and ensure secure, reliable communications throughout the rail network.”
Scott Prentice, ScotRail Strategy and Planning Director, added:
“We’re excited to partner with Clarus in testing Starlink on our trains. This collaboration advances our efforts to provide reliable connectivity for passengers, staff, and operational systems. By integrating Starlink’s satellite technology with our networks, we’re addressing long-standing communication challenges and enhancing the overall travel experience.”
The Clarus Networks Group will be running a webinar on this subject that fellow Rail Forum members are very welcome to join, please find the details here: https://live.zoho.eu/AiGW6KLvDP
