Approval granted by the FCC for modifying Starlink's license to deploy additional satellites in low-earth orbit.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted approval for SpaceX's Starlink to operate more satellites in a low Earth orbit within the United States. This decision, announced on April 27, 2021, addresses concerns about potential delays in SpaceX's launch schedule and will allow the company to lower the altitude of a significant number of its Starlink satellites.

The modification to SpaceX's Starlink license will have beneficial effects, particularly in polar regions, improving the user experience for those located in these areas. The FCC agrees that operations at the lower altitude will be advantageous with respect to orbital debris mitigation.

The FCC's approval allows SpaceX to continue with its launch schedule as planned, with the next one set for April 28. The change allows Starlink to lower the altitude of 2,814 satellites from 1,100-1,300km to 540-570km above the earth. This change aligns with SpaceX's original plan for 1,584 satellites, which were initially intended to operate at the lower altitude.

The FCC's decision regarding the modification will not present significant interference problems, as assessed under Commission precedent. The FCC stated that the modification will allow SpaceX to implement safety-focused changes to the deployment of its satellite constellation to deliver broadband service throughout the United States.

It's important to note that the FCC's approval is not based on concerns about electromagnetic interference or satellite collisions, as previously disputed. More than 200 objections were filed against the modification, but most were based on these concerns, which the FCC deemed to have no merit.

SpaceX currently has more than 1,400 satellites in orbit at an altitude of 540-570km. The FCC's approval of the modification is based on the belief that it will serve the public interest. The FCC's document regarding the approval was posted to its website.

In conclusion, the FCC's approval of SpaceX's Starlink modification is a significant step forward for the company's plans to deliver broadband service to remote and polar regions. The lower altitude of the satellites will improve the user experience and contribute to orbital debris mitigation efforts. The FCC's decision is a testament to the commission's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the advancement of space technology.

Approval granted by the FCC for modifying Starlink's license to deploy additional satellites in low-earth orbit.