SpaceX wants to launch 100k more Starlink satellites for 100x the bandwidth
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SpaceX seeks FCC approval to launch 100,000 Gen3 Starlink satellites promising gigabit speeds.
SpaceX's FCC application proposes a Gen3 Starlink system in very low Earth orbit with 100,000 satellites, each weighing over 2,000 kg, requiring Starship for mass launch. The network would serve consumers, enterprises, and government customers, including AI-powered devices. Spectrum requests span Ku- to D-band frequencies. SpaceX claims a 100-fold bandwidth increase, sub-20 ms latency, and multi-gigabit symmetrical speeds. Current Starlink real-world speeds average 145-170 Mbps down. Rivals include Amazon Leo and Eutelsat-OneWeb. The FCC will open public comment; approval faces potential conditions on debris and interference. Astronomers object to constellation effects on observations.
What commenters are saying
Commenters split sharply. One camp condemns the environmental impact, citing toxic reentry pollution and demanding pre-paid cleanup funds, with calls for criminal charges against executives. They argue that private profit shouldn't externalize societal costs. The other camp defends Starlink as internally funded, cashflow positive, and serving 12 million subscribers, calling it a disruptive necessity for rural areas without fiber. Some European users note local fiber offers better speeds at lower cost, questioning the global upside outside underserved regions. A few support Starlink as a backup or for mobile use.