SpaceX received authorization from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today to launch an additional 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites. This approval brings the company's total authorized Gen2 satellite count to 15,000 worldwide.

The FCC's decision allows SpaceX to proceed with its plans to expand its high-speed, low-latency internet service globally, including enhanced mobile and supplemental coverage from space. The initial authorization for the first 7,500 Gen2 satellites was granted in December 2022. At that time, the agency deferred action on the remaining satellites in the second-generation constellation, citing concerns about orbital debris and space safety, and limited the initial deployment to specific altitudes.

According to the FCC, today's order enables SpaceX to upgrade the Gen2 Starlink satellites with advanced form factors and cutting-edge technology. The Gen2 satellites are designed to offer significant improvements over the first-generation Starlink satellites, including increased bandwidth and more efficient spectrum utilization. These advancements are crucial for delivering reliable internet service to a larger user base, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

The expansion of the Starlink constellation is expected to have a significant impact on the satellite internet industry. By increasing the number of satellites in orbit, SpaceX aims to provide more consistent and higher-quality internet service compared to traditional satellite providers. The low-latency capabilities of the Starlink network, achieved through its low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite architecture, are particularly attractive to users who require real-time applications such as online gaming and video conferencing.

The FCC's decision reflects a growing recognition of the potential benefits of satellite internet for bridging the digital divide and providing connectivity to areas where terrestrial infrastructure is limited or non-existent. However, the expansion of large satellite constellations like Starlink has also raised concerns among astronomers and space debris experts. Astronomers worry about the potential for satellite glare to interfere with astronomical observations, while space debris experts are concerned about the increased risk of collisions in orbit.

SpaceX has taken steps to mitigate these concerns, including designing its satellites to be less reflective and implementing collision avoidance systems. The company is also working with various stakeholders to develop best practices for responsible satellite operations.

The next step for SpaceX is to continue deploying the Gen2 Starlink satellites and integrating them into its existing network. The company plans to launch these satellites using its Falcon 9 rockets, with multiple satellites deployed per launch. As the constellation grows, SpaceX will continue to expand its internet service offerings and coverage areas, bringing high-speed internet to more people around the world.