SpaeX’s Starlink home internet service has brought high-speed internet to millions who in the past didn’t have it and others who wanted other options.
Now SpaceX has received FCC clearance to start testing the second-generation Starlink dishes. These new dishes come with some big improvements, including the ability to use it when in motion on a car, plane, or even a boat.
These new dishes will also offer next-generation phased array antennas that should help improve Starlink’s performance.
Currently, SpaceX is testing multiple units and has permission to test up to 200 versions as long as they are not bigger than 23 inches by 15.1 inches.
In December 2022 SpaceX received permission from the FCC to start launching 7,500 of its second-generation satellites. These new satellites will be larger than the 1st generation, with massive antennas that will have the ability to communicate with mobile phones on earth, starting with a partnership with T-Mobile. According to SpaceX their goal is to end dead zones not just for T-Mobile but for other partners.
“Our action will allow SpaceX to begin deployment of Gen2 Starlink, which will bring next generation satellite broadband to Americans nationwide,” the FCC said in the order. “At the same time, this limited grant and associated conditions will protect other satellite and terrestrial operators from harmful interference and maintain a safe space environment, promoting competition and protecting spectrum and orbital resources for future use.”
The 2nd generation SpaceX Starlink satellites will allow SpaceX to expand their network to handle more traffic allowing SpaceX to continue to accept more customers and keep their speeds up as demand for the service grows.