SpaceX launches Starlink Mini 2 dish with built‑in battery and compact design

SpaceX began distributing its new residential Starlink V5 antenna in the United States. The V5 terminal weighs 1.1 kg – about 62 % less than the previous model – and uses roughly half the power (35‑50 W versus 75‑100 W). It retains IP67 protection, can melt up to 40 mm of snow per hour, and is rated for wind speeds up to 265 km/h.

Separate leaks indicate that SpaceX is preparing the next generation Mini 2 dish. The Mini 2 is slightly smaller (225 × 273 mm) and incorporates a four‑cell lithium‑ion battery managed by a BMS, allowing USB‑C charging at 11‑24 V. The integrated battery reduces the transmit duty cycle from about 75 % to 11 %, which may lower uplink speeds but improves portability for users such as campers and travellers. The device retains GPS support for in‑motion use and uses the same Catapult system‑on‑chip as the earlier Mini model.

Both the V5 launch and the forthcoming Mini 2 reflect SpaceX’s effort to make satellite internet hardware lighter, more energy‑efficient, and easier to install in remote or mobile settings.