tech
January 10, 2026
FCC approves SpaceX plan to deploy an additional 7,500 Starlink satellites
The FCC said Elon Musk's SpaceX can now operate an additional 7,500 Gen2 Starlink satellites, bringing the total to 15,000 satellites worldwide.
TL;DR
- FCC approved SpaceX to deploy an additional 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites.
- Total authorized Starlink satellites will now be 15,000.
- New satellites will provide direct-to-cell connectivity outside the U.S. and faster internet speeds.
- FCC waived prior requirements preventing overlapping coverage and enhanced capacity.
- SpaceX must launch 50% of authorized satellites by December 2028 and the remainder by December 2031.
- SpaceX is reconfiguring its constellation by lowering satellites in 2026 for space safety.
- Starlink experienced a rare kinetic accident in orbit in December with one satellite.
- SpaceX is the world's largest satellite operator through Starlink.
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