Public announcements from SpaceX or industry reports

FCC Approves SpaceX's Starlink Upgrade Despite Dish's Concerns

Aug 20, 2024, 03:34 PM

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted SpaceX permission to upgrade its first-generation Starlink satellite constellation with second-generation satellites. This upgrade aims to enhance the broadband quality of the Starlink system. The FCC's decision comes despite concerns from Dish Network, which argued that SpaceX's use of smaller beams could lead to violations of Commission and ITU EPFD regulations. However, the FCC disagreed with Dish Network's assessment. Additionally, SpaceX has been granted a license for launch vehicle communications for test flight missions from Starbase, Texas, between August 18, 2024, and February 15, 2025, and for upcoming missions from September 22, 2024, to March 22, 2025.