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SpaceX Seeks FCC Approval for 100,000 Starlink Satellites
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SpaceX Seeks FCC Approval for 100,000 Starlink Satellites

WireByte Staff · July 10, 2026

SpaceX has applied to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for permission to launch 100,000 third-generation (Gen3) Starlink satellites, promising ultra-low-latency multi-gigabit symmetrical broadband. This expansion would dwarf existing constellations and provide gigabit speeds, but faces competition from established internet providers.

Key points

  • SpaceX, the private aerospace manufacturer and space transport services company founded by Elon Musk, has applied to the FCC for permission to launch 100,000 Gen3 Starlink satellites.
  • The new satellites aim to deliver ultra-low-latency multi-gigabit symmetrical broadband, with promised speeds of gigabits per second.
  • The expansion would dwarf existing constellations, but faces competition from established internet providers such as AT&T, which offers speeds of 2.1 gigabits per second in some areas.
  • Current Starlink speeds, which range from 145-170 Mbps download and 40 Mbps upload, are significantly lower than what SpaceX promises.
  • Analysts say the new satellites could provide internet access to underserved areas, but critics argue it may exacerbate space debris and competition issues.

SpaceX Seeks FCC Approval for 100,000 Starlink Satellites

SpaceX, the private aerospace manufacturer and space transport services company founded by Elon Musk, has applied to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for permission to launch 100,000 third-generation (Gen3) Starlink satellites. The new satellites aim to deliver ultra-low-latency multi-gigabit symmetrical broadband, with promised speeds of gigabits per second.

The expansion would dwarf existing constellations, but faces competition from established internet providers such as AT&T, which offers speeds of 2.1 gigabits per second in some areas. Current Starlink speeds, which range from 145-170 Mbps download and 40 Mbps upload, are significantly lower than what SpaceX promises.

Analysts say the new satellites could provide internet access to underserved areas, but critics argue it may exacerbate space debris and competition issues.

Sources

WireByte Staff — Editorial Team

The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.