SpaceX received regulatory approval to expand its Starlink Direct to Cell service with 15,000 new satellites. This decision allows the company to significantly increase network capacity and improve service quality for mobile users. The approval matters because it removes a major regulatory hurdle for global broadband connectivity expansion. Consumers in the US and worldwide will eventually benefit from enhanced broadband reach through this infrastructure growth.
FCC grants 15-year license for 15,000 satellites to boost mobile broadband
The Federal Communications Commission granted SpaceX a 15-year license to operate the Direct to Cell (D2C) service. The new satellites will operate in nine orbital layers between 326 km and 335 km altitude. SpaceX must launch 50% of these satellites by October 7, 2032. The company has until October 7, 2035, to complete the full deployment of the approved satellite fleet.
The current Starlink Direct to Cell service provides speeds of 4 Mbit/s. The next-generation V2 satellites target user speeds of up to 150 Mbit/s. This represents a substantial increase in data throughput for mobile devices. The FCC noted that the approval allows SpaceX to improve service quality and increase capacity.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated that regulations need comprehensive overhaul. The commission will increase the amount of spectrum available for lease this month. They will also review ways to lower regulatory barriers for transaction processing. This move aims to support the secondary market trading of spectrum assets.
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