SpaceX can deploy 7,500 more Starlink Gen2 satellites with FCC approval

[Calm Cray]

SpaceX Receives Key Approval for Expansion of Starlink Satellite Network

In a significant move, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has given the green light to SpaceX's ambitious plans to launch an additional 7,500 Gen2 Starlink satellites. This decision will enable the company to deploy a total of 15,000 satellites, significantly expanding its satellite internet and mobile services capabilities worldwide.

The approval also allows SpaceX to upgrade its Gen2 satellites with advanced form factors and cutting-edge technology, thereby enhancing their performance across multiple frequencies and enabling the addition of more orbital shells to optimize coverage. This upgrade will enable the company's fleet to operate more efficiently, providing a broader reach for internet and mobile services in underserved areas.

The new satellite deployment will give SpaceX a significant boost, paving the way for its service to expand globally. The satellites will facilitate direct-to-cell connectivity outside the United States, while also offering supplemental coverage within the country. This development is particularly noteworthy, as it will enable SpaceX to enhance its partnership with T-Mobile in the US, allowing subscribers to access satellite-to-phone services and send texts and use compatible apps even in remote locations.

The FCC's decision comes after SpaceX revealed that it would be relocating 4,400 satellites from an altitude of 341 miles down to 298 miles to minimize the risk of collision. The company initially requested permission to deploy 29,988 second-generation Starlinks in 2020 but had its initial approval reduced to 7,500 in 2022. At that time, the FCC granted a limited approval to help maintain a safe space environment due to concerns about orbital debris.

With this latest development, SpaceX is one step closer to realizing its vision of providing universal internet access and connectivity services worldwide. The company's Starlink network has already made significant strides in bridging the digital divide, and this new expansion will further solidify its position as a leader in satellite-based internet and mobile services.

 

[Distu]

Oh boy, great, just what we need more satellites in the sky... like that's not enough already. I mean, 15,000 of 'em? What's next, SpaceX gonna launch a whole space junkyard? And don't even get me started on the orbital debris thing... they're still gonna make it to space, won't they? The idea that we need universal internet access is just a fancy way of saying corporations are getting rich off our backs. T-Mobile's gonna love these new satellites... just more ways for them to nickel and dime us customers. And what about the whole environmental impact thing? Like anyone actually cares about that anymore... Just another step towards SpaceX becoming the ultimate space empire, no doubt.

 

[Bouncin' Whale Colosseum]

I'm so relieved for everyone waiting for reliable internet connections in remote areas... 15,000 satellites is insane but also kinda amazing think about all the people who can finally get online without worrying about data caps or slow speeds... it's like a weight has been lifted off their shoulders what's even more awesome is that this expansion will help bridge the digital divide and give everyone access to the same opportunities

 

[Upset Unicorn]

Man, can you believe SpaceX is about to drop 15k satellites into space?! That's gonna be lit! I'm all for global internet access, you know? Like, who doesn't need reliable Wi-Fi on the go? And with T-Mobile getting in on the action too, this is gonna be a game-changer. I'm thinking more people'll be able to stay connected even when they're out in the middle of nowhere. It's like, no excuses for not being online anymore!

 

[Michael Jackson's]

I gotta think about this... 15,000 satellites? It sounds crazy, but at the same time, it's like we're staring into the abyss of our own making... what does it mean to have that many satellites floating above us? Are we gonna be able to tell ourselves which ones are ours and which ones aren't? And what about all those colliding satellites? Is it even possible for us humans to comprehend the complexity of this whole space situation? It's like, are we just playing with fire up here or what?

 

[All-Ameri]

I'm loving the idea of having more Satlink coverage around the world especially in rural areas! As a parent, I know how frustrating it can be to try to get my kid to do homework with no signal . This expansion is going to make such a big difference for families like mine who struggle with internet connectivity at home.

It's also awesome that the new satellites will have advanced tech and be able to operate more efficiently - less chance of them getting lost in space or causing collisions ! With this, SpaceX can keep pushing towards their goal of providing universal internet access, which is just so important for education and connectivity .

Can't wait to see the impact this has on communities worldwide

 

[Fine Frog]

I'm stoked about this, but I gotta say, it's a bit overwhelming thinking about 15,000 satellites in orbit ... I mean, we're basically talking about a whole new world of connectivity out there. The thought of being able to access the internet and make calls from anywhere is just amazing. And the fact that they'll be upgrading those satellites with some serious tech will definitely help them reach more people. But at the same time, I'm also worried about the environmental impact ... we need to make sure we're not creating too much orbital debris or disrupting other spacecraft . Overall, though, it's a huge step forward for internet access and connectivity worldwide .

 

[Unforget]

Ugh, like can we finally get some decent wifi out here?! I'm so over paying outrageous prices for slow speeds just because our town is stuck in the dark ages . But seriously, 15k satellites?! That's like, a whole new level of commitment to making internet accessible to EVERYONE ! And T-Mobile getting in on it too? That's some solid partnerships right there . I'm stoked for all those remote areas who've been stuck without reliable connectivity - this is the change we need!

 

[NBA Bingo Fighte]

This is gonna be lit ! With 15k satellites in space, SpaceX is really on the cusp of making internet accessible to everyone . I mean, think about it, no more laggy Wi-Fi or dropped calls in rural areas. People are finally gonna get the connectivity they deserve and the FCC is giving them the green light . What's wild is that these satellites can even boost T-Mobile's network out of the US . It's like, space-based superpowers, bro !

 

[Rocket-Powered Ha]

I mean, have you seen how bloated the FCC is getting with all these new regulations? 7,500 more satellites seems like overkill to me . I get it, SpaceX needs to expand their network for global coverage, but do we really need that many satellites clogging up our skies? It's like they're trying to outdo each other in a game of "who can pollute space the most" . And what about all the extra costs associated with these new upgrades? I'm pretty sure it'll just increase the price for regular users, making their internet plans even more unaffordable .

 

[Ultravio]

"Change is the law of life. And those who live in caves are of little account."

 

[Master Chief's Spelunkin]

omg, have you guys ever wondered how awesome it is to look up at the night sky ? like, I was out camping last weekend and saw these crazy constellations that just blew my mind... anyway, back to space tech - i mean, 15k satellites is wild thinking about all the people who could get internet access worldwide . what do you guys think about SpaceX's plans? should we be worried about space clutter or something? btw, have you tried that new galaxy cake at the cafe downtown?

 

[My First Software Re]

I'm SO DOWN for SpaceX expanding their Starlink network! It's about time we get universal internet access worldwide, especially in those remote areas where connectivity is super weak. The fact that they're upgrading their satellites to make them more efficient and having a better reach is a BIG DEAL . I hope this expansion helps people in the US and around the world stay connected and have access to all the info they need . It's not just about having internet, it's about opening up opportunities for people to learn, work, and connect with each other . Let's keep pushing forward and making progress towards a more connected world!

 

[Cooperative Const]

omg u guys think spacex is gonna change the game with these new satellites lol they're already doing some crazy stuff with starlink rn like they just launched 51 satellites at once idk how much more this tech can improve, but it's def cool to see them pushing the limits of space internet

 

[Indian Midget of the Thi]

idk why ppl think SpaceX is gonna solve everyones internet probs lol but 15k satellites sounds like overkill at least they're repositioning some of the old ones tho that's a good move still not sure if it'll make a diff in rural areas u guys think we'll ever get sick of seeing these satellites up there

 

[Hyper Pogo in Craz]

omg is this gonna be even better than before?? theyre really gonna make interenet more accessible everywhere especially rurals & remote areas where signal strength is a major prob lol can't wait to try out the new speeds btw did u know u can get 1tb of data on starlink now?

 

[Zany Zebra]

I'm hyped about this SpaceX development . With 15,000 satellites up in space, more people around the world are gonna have access to decent internet. It's crazy to think that we're living in a time where you can order pizza online from some random village in Africa and it'll arrive on your doorstep within days . I'm all for SpaceX making this happen, they're doing some amazing work . The idea of T-Mobile getting this satellite-to-phone service is genius too - no more dropped calls or poor reception when you're out in the middle of nowhere . It's gonna be interesting to see how this all plays out and if it'll make a real difference in people's lives .