U.S. FCC Approves Additional 7,500 Second-Generation Starlink Satellites

SpaceX Expands Low-Earth Orbit Operations to 15,000 Satellites
FCC: "A Game-Changer for Next-Generation Communications"

U.S. authorities have approved the additional deployment of second-generation Starlink satellites for SpaceX's satellite internet service.

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket is soaring into the sky with flames on October 5, 2023, at the U.S. Space Force launch site in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The Falcon 9 rocket launch is carrying out Starlink's 6-21 mission. Photo by Yonhap News

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced on January 9 (local time) that it has authorized SpaceX to deploy an additional 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites. With this approval, the total number of second-generation Starlink satellites that SpaceX can operate in low-Earth orbit will increase to 15,000.

Along with this approval, the FCC has allowed upgrades to satellite performance and the use of five frequency bands, while also waiving certain existing requirements that had previously limited service capacity.

The FCC explained that these additional satellites will provide 'Direct-to-Cell' services outside the United States, and enable next-generation mobile services and internet speeds of up to 1 Gbps within the U.S.

Brendan Carr, FCC Commissioner, stated, "This authorization is a game-changer that enables next-generation communications services," adding, "By approving 15,000 new and advanced satellites, we are providing unprecedented satellite broadband capabilities, enhancing competition, and opening the door to ensure that no region is left behind."

Previously, in December 2022, the FCC granted its first approval for the operation of 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites. At that time, SpaceX had applied for permission to deploy a total of 29,988 second-generation satellites, but the FCC only approved a portion and deferred a decision on the remainder.

In this latest decision, the FCC again approved only 7,500 satellites out of the same-sized application for additional satellite operations, holding off on approval for the remaining 14,988 satellites. Currently, SpaceX operates more than 9,000 satellites in orbit, including first-generation, 1.5-generation, and second-generation satellites known as 'V2 Mini.'