The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted approval for SpaceX to deploy an additional 7,500 second‑generation Starlink satellites, expanding the company’s global satellite broadband network and boosting internet connectivity options worldwide. This approval marks a major step in the expansion of SpaceX’s Starlink constellation and reflects growing demand for satellite-based internet services.

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Expansion of Starlink Gen2 Constellation

Under the FCC’s order, SpaceX is now authorized to operate up to 15,000 second‑generation Starlink satellites worldwide. These satellites are part of SpaceX’s ongoing effort to enhance satellite internet coverage, including direct‑to‑cell services outside the United States and supplemental high‑speed coverage within the U.S. The expanded constellation is expected to support next-generation mobile services and internet speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second.

The FCC also approved technology upgrades and multi‑frequency operations across five spectrum bands, which will help improve capacity and flexibility in how the satellites deliver broadband. Previously, SpaceX had to comply with restrictions on overlapping coverage and capacity, but these requirements were waived under the new authorization to encourage enhanced service performance.

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Deployment Conditions and Milestones

While the FCC approved the 7,500 additional Starlink satellites, it deferred authorization for about half of SpaceX’s larger proposal—nearly 30,000 satellites total—until further testing and evaluation of orbital safety and radio‑frequency use are completed.

Key deployment conditions include:

• 50% of the authorized Gen2 satellites must be launched, placed in assigned orbits, and operating by December 1, 2028.
• Full deployment of those authorized satellites must be complete by December 2031.
• SpaceX must also complete deployment of its first-generation Starlink satellites by late November 2027.

Starlink also plans to reconfigure its existing spacecraft by lowering many satellites from around 550 kilometers to approximately 480 kilometers altitude during 2026 to improve space safety and reduce collision risks.

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Impact on Global Broadband and Competition

The FCC described the authorization as a “game-changer” for satellite broadband services, highlighting that expanded capacity and new frequencies will help ensure broader access to high-speed internet, particularly in underserved regions. FCC Chair Brendan Carr noted the decision strengthens competition and supports the mission of connecting communities that lack reliable traditional internet infrastructure.

SpaceX’s Starlink network already comprises about 9,400 operational satellites, making it one of the largest satellite constellations in orbit, serving millions of customers worldwide, including consumers, enterprises, and government users.

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Why This Matters

Satellite internet plays a growing role in global connectivity, especially in areas where terrestrial infrastructure is limited or nonexistent. The expanded Starlink constellation aims to:

• Provide faster, more reliable broadband for remote communities.
• Support direct-to-cell connectivity, improving mobile service in rural and international markets.
• Enhance broadband speeds and network capacity to meet rising demand.
• Strengthen global competition with other satellite operators.

SpaceX’s progress underscores the broader trend of private companies investing in large-scale space infrastructure to meet global connectivity needs.

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Key Takeaways

• The FCC approved SpaceX to deploy 7,500 additional Starlink satellites, bringing the Gen2 total to 15,000.
• Authorization includes satellite upgrades, expanded frequency use, and waived historical restrictions.
• Deployment milestones are set for 2028 and 2031.
• SpaceX must still complete first-generation satellite deployment by late 2027.
• Expanded constellation is expected to boost global broadband, mobile services, and competition.