SpaceX receives FCC approval to expand second-generation Starlink constellation

Ars Technica
Ars Technica
5h ago
SpaceX received FCC permission to construct, deploy, and operate an additional 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites, bringing its total Gen2 authorization to 15,000 satellites worldwide with both fixed and mobile service.
SpaceX receives FCC approval to expand second-generation Starlink constellation
A What happened
The FCC authorized SpaceX to construct, deploy, and operate an additional 7,500 Gen2 Starlink satellites, bringing the total Gen2 authorization to 15,000 satellites worldwide. The FCC said the expansion will enable high-speed, low-latency Internet service globally, including enhanced mobile and supplemental coverage from space. SpaceX announced plans to lower about 4,400 existing satellites from 550 km to 480 km during 2026, saying lower altitudes have less debris that satellites could collide with. Viasat and Globalstar filed petitions asking the FCC to deny SpaceX’s separate request to launch another 15,000 mobile-focused satellites.
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Key insights

  • 1

    FCC cited orbital-debris and space-safety concerns in earlier Gen2 limits: The FCC said it limited the first 7,500 Gen2 satellites to certain altitudes in 2022 while it addressed concerns about orbital debris and space safety before approving more satellites.

  • 2

    Competing satellite operators objected to SpaceX’s separate request for 15,000 more satellites: Viasat and Globalstar filed petitions to deny SpaceX’s application for another 15,000 satellites designed for mobile service, citing competition, access to orbital and spectrum resources, and interference risks.

  • 3

    SpaceX said lowering satellite altitudes increases space safety: SpaceX said it plans to lower about 4,400 existing satellites from 550 km to 480 km during 2026 because lower altitudes have less debris that satellites could collide with.

Takeaways

SpaceX now has FCC authorization for 15,000 Gen2 Starlink satellites with fixed and mobile service, while its separate bid for 15,000 additional mobile-focused satellites faces petitions to deny from competitors.

Topics

Science & Research Space World & Politics Policy & Regulation

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