FCC approves SpaceX's 15,000-satellite direct-to-device constellation

The FCC approved 15,000 non-geostationary satellites for SpaceX's direct-to-device service on October 6, 2026, using mobile satellite spectrum bought from EchoStar. The agency deferred action on some frequency bands and on certain operations in the 2020–2025 MHz band. The approval is tied to the later transfer of EchoStar licenses to SpaceX, expected around late 2027.

• Approved 15,000 non-geostationary satellites; FCC action dated October 6, 2026
• Deferred: 20.2–21.2 GHz and 30.0–31.0 GHz bands, and certain MSS uplink operations in 2020–2025 MHz
• EchoStar license transfer to SpaceX expected on or about November 30, 2027
• Satellite deployment and payload testing before the transfer need EchoStar's permission