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With Google Balloons Coming To India, We Can Now Have Internet Access Everywhere

byAparajita Mishra
3rd November 2015
2 minute read

The internet is  omnipresent. But what people don’t know is that even after being in the 21st century, almost two-thirds of the world population doesn’t have access to it.  Either they can’t afford a connection, or none exists where they live. But Google might have an answer to the never-ending woes.

Google’s project ‘Project Loon’ will be introduced in India for hassle-free internet connection.

That’s right! India may soon witness the advent of fast internet with Google’s aid.

 

What is Project Loon?

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Launched in June 2013, the project uses many big balloons which float at a height of 20 kilometres above the Earth’s surface for transmission of Internet services and making it accessible in a large scale. It’s designed in such a way that even the remote areas will get access to the internet.

 

How does it work?

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1. The balloons float in the Stratosphere, which is twice as high as the flying aeroplanes.

2. There are many layers of the wind in the Stratosphere, each layer varying in direction and speed. The software algorithms will determine where its balloons need to go; placing the balloon into a layer of wind blowing in the right direction. As a result, the Loon balloons will float or descend into a layer of wind.

3. After partnering with Telecommunication companies that’ll share cellular spectrum, people will be able to connect to the balloon network directly from their phones and other LTE- enabled devices.

4. The signal will then be passed across the balloon network.

To know more about its specifications, you can read it here. Also, you can see this video that shows what progress has been made and how this balloon network has become a reality.

 

Are there any countries that have successfully tested this?

Yes. The project has already been successful in these countries – New Zealand, California and Brazil. Sri Lanka and Indonesia have also given a nod to this project.

And now, it’s India’s turn. Google is now working with the Indian Government for providing large-scale internet connectivity

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An official source said:

Google approached the government to set up the Loon project and Drone-based Internet transmission. The government has approved testing of Loon project only as of now. A committee under the chairmanship of Secretary, DEITY, has been formed to work on it.

 

 How will things be managed in India?

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1. Google will partner with BSNL and test the technology. They’ll be using broadband spectrum in 2.6 GHz band.

2. According to Google, using 4G services will provide connectivity to a ground area about 40km in diameter.

3. Google will function as technology service provider and not internet service provider.

Isn’t this spectacular? Google’s initiative is really mind blowing and it needs promulgation not only in India but also in all parts of the world. May this project be successful in India.

Till then, I’ll sulk over my low internet access. 🙁

News Source: The Indian Express

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