SpaceX received approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch an additional 7,500 of its second-generation Starlink satellites, bringing the total authorization to 15,000 worldwide, the FCC announced Friday. The decision allows SpaceX to expand its high-speed internet coverage globally, including direct-to-cell connectivity outside the United States and supplemental coverage within the U.S., according to the FCC.

The authorization enables SpaceX to construct, deploy, and operate the additional satellites, Ars Technica reported. The FCC had previously granted SpaceX permission for the first set of 7,500 Gen2 satellites in December.

Beyond expanding internet coverage, the FCC stated that the decision means Starlink satellites can operate across five frequencies. Reuters reported that SpaceX had originally requested approval for 15,000 additional satellites, but the FCC deferred authorization of the remaining 14,988 proposed Gen2 Starlink satellites.

SpaceX must launch 50 of the newly approved Starlink satellites by December 1, 2028, according to TechCrunch. The FCC's decision aims to facilitate high-speed, low-latency internet service around the world.