As part of this initiative, approximately 9,000 homes and businesses in Maine will be offered Elon Musk's Starlink satellite dishes, targeting those currently without internet access.

To achieve this goal, the Maine Connectivity Authority has launched the Working Internet ASAP Program, which aims to connect homes and businesses lacking internet service.

Most of the unserved residences and businesses are concentrated in Oxford, Aroostook, and Penobscot counties, with a detailed map highlighting service gaps across the state.

Starlink was selected for this initiative following a competitive bidding process conducted during the summer.

While Starlink has previously provided internet to rural Maine, it faced challenges such as high prices and dropped connections reported by early users in 2021.

It is important to note that while the state will cover the cost of the Starlink equipment, it will not subsidize the monthly service fee of $120, which offers unlimited data.

Eligible homes and businesses can begin applying for Starlink satellites in November through an enrollment portal, supported by a state marketing campaign to raise awareness.

Governor Janet Mills has set an ambitious goal for universal internet access for all Mainers by the end of 2023, highlighting the critical need for connectivity to avoid living in the digital dark.

The program will facilitate the purchase of Starlink hardware and service, specifically designed to serve the 1.5 percent of Maine homes and businesses that currently lack internet.

State funding will support the satellite expansion, with potential federal assistance on the horizon, including an estimated $350 million from the federal Broadband Equity and Access Program in 2025.

Although the total cost for the equipment, which includes free shipping and professional installation, has not yet been finalized, early estimates suggest it could be around $5.4 million.

Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX founded by Elon Musk, who is also the world's richest person and owner of Tesla and X (formerly Twitter), is at the forefront of this connectivity effort.