SpaceX just got approval to launch another 7,500 next-gen Starlink satellites into orbit

SpaceX Gets Approval to Launch Additional 7,500 Starlink Satellites

SpaceX has received the green light from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch an additional 7,500 Starlink Gen2 satellites, bringing the total number of satellites in orbit to 15,000. This decision is expected to enable “even better, faster, and more advanced internet services” in the country, according to FCC chairman Brendan Carr.

The Starlink Gen2 satellites offer higher capacities and lower latencies compared to the first-generation models, with a 20x increase in throughput and easier connectivity. By connecting to a Gen2 satellite via a Starlink dish, users can experience improved internet services.

Safety Measures and Orbital Configurations

The FCC has also granted SpaceX permission to operate its Starlink satellites across a wider range of frequencies and in a greater number of orbital configurations, ensuring more reliable and speedier service. This decision comes after SpaceX lowered the altitude of 4,400 of its satellites to reduce the risk of collisions with other satellites and objects in space.

Questions have been raised about the increasing crowding of the edges of Earth’s atmosphere, but the FCC believes it is safe to increase the number of satellites from 7,500 to 15,000. The agency has set a deadline for SpaceX to launch and position half of the newly approved satellites by December 1, 2028, and the remaining half by December 2031.

Direct-to-Cell Connectivity and Partnerships

The additional satellites will enable Starlink to provide direct-to-cell connectivity outside the US, where it has a partnership with T-Mobile. This expansion is expected to improve internet services for users worldwide.

For more information on this development, you can read the full article here.