Archive · 10 Jan 2026
FCC Approves SpaceX's 7,500 More Starlink Satellites
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has given SpaceX permission to launch 7,500 more Starlink satellites.
This means SpaceX can now have a total of 15,000 satellites in space.
These satellites will help provide better internet services around the world, including faster speeds and coverage in more places.
The FCC also set deadlines for SpaceX to launch these satellites by 2028 and 2031.
SpaceX must also finish deploying its first-generation satellites by late 2027.
The FCC chair said this approval is a big step forward for better satellite internet.
SpaceX is already the largest satellite operator with about 9,400 satellites currently in orbit.
FCC approved SpaceX's request to launch 7,500 more second-generation Starlink satellites.
Total approved satellites now stand at 15,000, with deployment deadlines set for 2028 and 2031.
Satellites will offer direct-to-cell connectivity outside the US and additional coverage within the country.
SpaceX must finish deploying 7,500 first-generation satellites by late November 2027.
FCC chair Brendan Carr called the approval a major breakthrough for next-generation services.
- Who
- SpaceX, FCC, Elon Musk
- What
- Approval of 7,500 more Starlink satellites
- When
- FCC approval on Friday (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- Global operations, with direct-to-cell connectivity outside the US
- Why
- To improve internet services and support next-generation mobile services
- Total Approved Satellites
- 15,000
- Deployment Deadline (50%)
- December 1, 2028
- Deployment Deadline (Remaining)
- December 2031
- First-Gen Deployment Deadline
- Late November 2027
- Orbit Adjustment
- 480 km in 2026
- Current Starlink Satellites
- 9,400
- FCC Chair
- Brendan Carr
- SpaceX Request
- Nearly 30,000 satellites
