SpaceX received approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch an additional 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites, bringing its total authorized Gen2 constellation to 15,000, according to an announcement made Friday. The FCC's decision enables SpaceX to expand its high-speed, low-latency internet service globally, including direct-to-cell connectivity outside the United States and supplemental coverage within the U.S., TechCrunch reported.
The approval allows SpaceX to operate Starlink satellites across five frequencies and upgrade them with advanced technologies. Ars Technica noted that the FCC had previously approved the first set of 7,500 satellites in December.
While SpaceX had requested approval for a total of 15,000 additional satellites, the FCC deferred authorization of the remaining 14,988 proposed Gen2 Starlink satellites, according to Reuters.
The FCC set specific launch deadlines for SpaceX, requiring the company to launch 50 of the newly approved Starlink satellites by December 1, 2028, TechCrunch reported. This condition ensures SpaceX adheres to a timeline for deploying its expanded constellation.
The expanded Starlink constellation aims to provide enhanced mobile and supplemental coverage from space, Ars Technica noted. The FCC's decision is expected to facilitate SpaceX's delivery of high-speed internet service to underserved areas worldwide.
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