FCC Approves SpaceX Constellation of 15,000 Satellites for Direct-to-Device Connectivity

The Federal Communications Commission granted SpaceX approval to construct and operate 15,000 Starlink satellites at altitudes of 326 to 335 kilometers for direct-to-device service. The regulator also waived rules requiring spectrum leases from terrestrial carriers, enabling Starlink to compete directly with telecom operators like AT&T and Verizon. SpaceX acquired approximately 65 MHz of spectrum from EchoStar in two transactions totaling $19.6 billion. Initial satellite launches are scheduled for late 2027, with regulatory milestones requiring half the constellation deployed by October 2032 and full deployment by October 2035.