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SpaceX Gets FCC Approval to Launch 7,500 More Starlink Satellites

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Alex Chen
Tech Journalist & Product Reviewer
Image from techcrunch.com
Image source: TechCrunch

SpaceX has secured Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval to launch an additional 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites. This brings the total number of satellites the company will have in orbit to around 15,000 worldwide. The FCC approved SpaceX's plan on Friday, waiving previous requirements that prevented overlapping coverage and enhanced capacity. SpaceX originally sought approval for the launch in 2023, but the FCC delayed its decision until now.

The new satellites will be part of SpaceX's Starlink Gen2 constellation, which aims to provide high-speed internet connectivity to remote and underserved areas. The company has already launched several batches of Starlink satellites, with the first batch launched in 2019.

The FCC's approval is a significant milestone for SpaceX, which has been working to expand its Starlink network. The company has faced competition from other satellite internet providers, but its low latency and high-speed connectivity have made it a popular choice for consumers and businesses alike.

The launch of the new satellites is expected to take place in the coming months, with SpaceX already preparing the necessary infrastructure for the launch. The company has not announced a specific timeline for the launch, but it is expected to happen soon.

The FCC's approval of the launch is a testament to the growing demand for satellite internet connectivity. As more people and businesses rely on the internet for their daily needs, the demand for high-speed and reliable connectivity is increasing. SpaceX's Starlink network is well-positioned to meet this demand, and the launch of the new satellites is an important step in achieving this goal.

The FCC's decision to waive previous requirements for overlapping coverage and enhanced capacity is also significant. This will allow SpaceX to provide more comprehensive coverage to remote and underserved areas, which is a key objective of the Starlink network.

The launch of the new satellites is expected to have a significant impact on the satellite internet industry. It will provide more competition to existing providers and drive innovation in the field. It will also create new opportunities for businesses and consumers to access high-speed internet connectivity, which is essential for economic growth and development.

The FCC's approval of the launch is a significant development in the space industry. It demonstrates the growing importance of satellite internet connectivity and the role that SpaceX is playing in shaping this industry. The launch of the new satellites is an important step in achieving this goal, and it is expected to have a significant impact on the industry in the coming months and years.

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[5] SpaceX gets FCC approval to launch 7,500 more Starlink satellites