FCC Clears SpaceX to Deploy 15,000 Satellites for Direct-to-Device Service

The FCC approved SpaceX's plan to deploy 15,000 low Earth orbit satellites for a direct-to-device network and waived the rule requiring satellite firms to lease spectrum from a terrestrial operator. SpaceX also agreed to buy low-band 800 MHz spectrum for ground-based coverage, including indoors, pending FCC approval.

• FCC approved 15,000 D2D satellites in a lower orbit than typical Starlink craft
• Rule requiring spectrum leases from terrestrial carriers was waived
• SpaceX is buying 800 MHz spectrum from Grain Management for indoor coverage
• Indoor coverage remains the main technical hurdle for D2D service