SpaceX has submitted an application to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch 100,000 additional Starlink satellites [1]. The proposed Gen3 Starlink system aims to deliver 'ultra-low-latency' multi-gigabit symmetrical broadband, with a promised 100-fold increase in total bandwidth [2]. The move could significantly expand the reach and capabilities of satellite broadband, but it also faces potential opposition from astromers and rival services. According to SpaceX's FCC application, the Gen3 satellites will weigh over 2,000 kilograms and will require the use of the company's Starship or Falcon Heavy rockets for launch [3].
The application also seeks access to a broad range of spectrum, including Ku-, Ka-, V-, E-, W-, and D-band frequencies [4]. While the exact cost and risk implications of the proposal are unclear, it is likely to have significant organizational and financial implications for SpaceX and the broader satellite industry. As noted by Steven Vaughan-Nichols, 'if the FCC signs off on even a substantial fraction of the 100,000-satellite request, Gen3 Starlink would redefine the scale of satellite broadband' [5]. However, the proposal also faces criticism from astromers, who argue that large constellations like Starlink could have 'devastating effects on astronomy' [6].
The FCC's Space Bureau will review the application, including a public notice and comment period, before making a decision.
Sources
- https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/resize/e27b3953df87b835a77deeeec01f311aa283a5ec/2022/08/05/e2171bd1-84f6-4ca8-9801-2abdeb61a365/steven-vaughan-nichols.jpg
- https://www.spacex.com/
- https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1928929070047440901
- https://fccprod.servicenowservices.com/ibfs?id=ibfs_application_summary&number=SAT-LOA-20260630-00264
- https://www.zdnet.com/home-and-office/networking/how-i-built-my-own-wifi-router-with-raspberry-pi/
- https://www.eso.org/public/news/eso2607/
