The Federal Communications Commission announced on Friday that it has approved SpaceX to launch an additional 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites, bringing the total to 15,000 satellites globally.
This decision not only allows SpaceX to expand its high-speed internet coverage but also enables Starlink satellites to operate across five frequencies and provide direct-to-cell connectivity outside the U.S., along with additional coverage within the country.
According to Reuters, SpaceX had initially requested approval for 15,000 more satellites, but the FCC stated it would “defer authorization of the remaining 14,988 proposed Gen2 Starlink satellites.”
The FCC has set deadlines for SpaceX to launch: 50% of the approved Starlink satellites must be launched by December 1, 2028, with the remaining 50% to follow by December 2031.
