With Permission, SpaceX Can Launch 7,500 Second Generation Starlink Satellites

JAKARTA - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has allowed SpaceX to launch 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites into orbit. With that, the total number of satellites that SpaceX operates will reach 15,000.

The launch of these additional satellites is allowed so that SpaceX can provide direct connectivity to mobile phones, both inside and outside the US. The goal is, SpaceX can increase internet speeds to 1 GB (gigabyte) per second.

Elon Musk's company is also expected to strengthen industry competition and ensure that no remote areas are left behind in terms of internet access. Therefore, the addition of this number of satellites is considered an important step.

"This FCC authorization is a major breakthrough to enable next-generation services and deliver unprecedented broadband capabilities," said FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, launching from Reuters on Saturday, January 10, 2026.

Previously, SpaceX applied for the launch of 30,000 satellites. However, the FCC chose to delay most of the proposed amount. SpaceX was asked to launch 50 percent of the quota allowed by December 2028.

Currently, SpaceX is the largest satellite operator in the world with an active satellite network of around 9,400 units. With this number, it is not surprising that Starlink is the best satellite internet provider for now.

The process of launching the remaining first-generation satellites is scheduled to be completed in November 2027. After that, SpaceX will continue with the second generation after the turn of the year.