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Setup and equipment

What causes Starlink obstructions and dropouts?

Reviewed · UK Satellite Internet

An obstruction blocks the radio path between your dish and a satellite. A branch or roof edge can cause brief dropouts as satellites pass behind it, even if speed tests look good between interruptions.

Recognising an obstruction problem

Check both the obstruction map and outage information in the Starlink app. After a new setup, allow up to twelve hours for the dish to build its map. An early warning can change as it learns which satellites to use. Repeated interruptions affecting every device are more useful evidence than a single alert; if only one room struggles, investigate Wi-Fi first.

What changed recently?

New leaves, branch growth, scaffolding or a shifted mount can affect a previously working position. Inspect what you can from the ground. Do not climb onto a roof to investigate a routine connection fault.

Finding a better position

Scan another accessible location before moving the kit and check whether the cable will reach it. Disconnect power before relocating the dish, then reconnect and allow it to learn the new view. If the only clear position needs roof access, have an installer assess it. Some properties have too much surrounding tree cover for a dependable installation.

Sources and further reading

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