The FCC Grants SpaceX Approval to Launch 7,500 More Starlink Satellites
The Federal Communications Commission recently made an announcement regarding SpaceX, revealing that the company has been given the green light to launch an additional 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites. This approval brings the total number of Starlink satellites to 15,000, expanding the company’s high-speed internet coverage on a global scale.
Aside from the significant increase in satellite deployment, the FCC’s decision also allows Starlink satellites to operate across five different frequencies. This expansion enables the provision of direct-to-cell connectivity outside the United States, as well as enhanced coverage within the U.S.
According to reports from Reuters, SpaceX initially requested approval for an additional 15,000 satellites. However, the FCC opted to defer authorization for the remaining 14,988 proposed Gen2 Starlink satellites, granting approval for the initial 7,500 satellites.
In compliance with the FCC’s regulations, SpaceX is required to launch 50% of the approved Starlink satellites by December 1, 2028. The remaining 50% must be launched by December 2031 to meet the FCC’s stipulations.