Federal Communications Commission announced on friday This has given SpaceX approval to launch another 7,500 of its second-generation Starlink satellites, for a total of 15,000 satellites worldwide.
In addition to allowing SpaceX to launch more satellites and expand its high-speed internet coverage, the FCC says its decision also means Starlink satellites can operate on five frequencies and provide direct-to-cell connectivity outside the United States, as well as supplemental coverage in the US.
Reuters reports that SpaceX requested approval for an additional 15,000 satellites, but the FCC said it would “postpone authorization of the remaining 14,988 proposed Gen2 Starlink satellites.”
The FCC says SpaceX must launch 50% of its approved Starlink satellites by December 1, 2028, and the remaining 50% by December 2031.
