FCC to defer on constellations of thousands of satellites
SpaceX had asked for a waiver so it could deploy 1,600 of its satellites initially, and later launch 2,825 satellites after the six-year deadline, according to FCC filings. SpaceX argued that it could start its broadband internet service without all of its constellation launched. Launching hundreds of satellites should be enough to show its not hoarding spectrum, the company said.
"Completing the full constellation over a six-year period would require a launch cadence of more than 60 satellites per month, beginning on the day the Commission grants a license," SpaceX wrote in one filing. “This is an aggressive pace even for a company like SpaceX, which has demonstrated considerable launch capabilities."
The FCC developed the rules so owners of valuable spectrum don’t hoard it and never use it for services.
SAS Price at posting:
16.5¢ Sentiment: Hold Disclosure: Held
