Starlink can now deploy more satellites—here’s what analysts think

SpaceX’s Starlink is gearing up to deploy another 7,500 satellites thanks to the Federal Communications Commission authorization. But the move is less about expanding coverage than it is about improving latency and network reliability, said some analysts. Per the FCC’s announcement, SpaceX will be allowed to operate across the Ku-, Ka-, V-, E- and W-band frequencies, supporting both fixed satellite service and mobile satellite service. The company also got the green light to operate its low-earth orbit satellites at lower altitudes, ranging from 340-485 kilometers. Arun Menon, lead analyst at MTN Consulting, said, “Starlink already has near-global reach. These lower and additional shells enable greater frequency reuse, better link budgets, and lower latency, which together translate into higher usable throughput, particularly in high-demand or congested regions.”