Elon Musk-led SpaceX has obtained a commercial license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for its Starlink Direct-to-Cell service. This marks a pivotal step in expanding the reach of satellite-based mobile connectivity.
What Happened: The FCC has granted SpaceX a U.S. commercial license for its Starlink Direct-to-Cell service. This license allows SpaceX to operate its Gen2 Starlink satellites for non-geostationary orbit fixed-satellite services.
The FCC’s order partially approves SpaceX’s application to construct, deploy, and operate these satellites, with certain conditions.
The license also includes permission for SpaceX to provide Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) within the U.S. and to conduct direct-to-cell operations outside the country using its existing 7,500 Gen2 Starlink satellites.
Previously, the FCC granted SpaceX and T-Mobile US Inc. TMUS Special Temporary Authority (STA) to deliver Starlink Direct-to-Cell services in regions affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
This service proved crucial in aiding recovery efforts, connecting 270,000 mobile phones, all belonging to T-Mobile subscribers, as reported by SpaceX earlier this month.
Why It Matters: This FCC license is a major milestone for SpaceX’s Starlink, enabling it to enhance mobile connectivity.
Earlier this month, SpaceX and T-Mobile activated their Direct-to-Cell coverage in Florida before Hurricane Milton made landfall. This initiative allowed residents to send messages, contact emergency services, and receive alerts, even when traditional networks were down.
In September, T-Mobile successfully sent its first wireless emergency alert via Starlink satellites, highlighting the potential of this technology in public safety. The alert was transmitted from a Starlink satellite in low-Earth orbit, functioning as a cell tower in space, and was received by a T-Mobile smartphone within seconds. This demonstrated the capability of Starlink to provide geographically targeted alerts in emergencies.
Moreover, SpaceX executive Benjamin Longmier recently clarified that Starlink would enable connectivity for cellphones even indoors, addressing concerns about signal availability.
This comes at a time when SpaceX CEO Musk said that the company will use proceeds from its Starlink service to fund the Mars mission.
SpaceX is also reportedly preparing to launch a tender offer that values the company at $250 billion. While the company is private, investors can leverage Destiny Tech100 Inc. DXYZ and Cathie Wood‘s Ark Venture Fund ARKVX to participate in the Musk-led space company’s growth.
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